By Crash News Writer 
North Haven, CT (October 18, 2026) – A University of New Haven student lost his life, and four others were injured in a wrong-way collision involving four vehicles on Interstate 91 South in North Haven on Friday night, October 16. The fatal accident occurred shortly before midnight when a pickup truck traveling against traffic struck another vehicle head-on.
According to the Connecticut State Police, a 30-year-old Bridgeport man was driving a Chevrolet Silverado northbound in the southbound lanes of Interstate 91 when he collided head-on with a Honda Accord. Following the initial impact, two additional vehicles struck the Honda.
The Honda’s driver, identified as 21-year-old Ryan O’Shea of New York, was pronounced dead at the scene. The University of New Haven confirmed that O’Shea was a student and served as a senior assistant captain of the school’s club men’s ice hockey team.
The Silverado driver was transported to Yale New Haven Hospital with serious, life-threatening injuries. Two other drivers and one passenger suffered minor injuries and were also hospitalized.
The university released statements remembering O’Shea for his personality, love of sports, and commitment to helping others. The men’s ice hockey club canceled its scheduled game against the University of Delaware following his death.
University officials also announced plans for a campus memorial and said grief counseling would be available to students.
The Connecticut State Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Squad continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This article is based on preliminary information from law enforcement, emergency responders, and local news reports. Additional details may become available as investigations continue.
The Honda’s driver, identified as 21-year-old Ryan O’Shea of New York, was pronounced dead at the scene. The University of New Haven confirmed that O’Shea was a student and served as a senior assistant captain of the school’s club men’s ice hockey team.
The Silverado driver was transported to Yale New Haven Hospital with serious, life-threatening injuries. Two other drivers and one passenger suffered minor injuries and were also hospitalized.
The university released statements remembering O’Shea for his personality, love of sports, and commitment to helping others. The men’s ice hockey club canceled its scheduled game against the University of Delaware following his death.
Readers seeking information about insurance claims, investigations, and legal rights can review our frequently asked questions in Connecticut.
Those affected by similar incidents can also explore accident resources in Connecticut for information about available assistance.
This article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. Information is based on publicly available reports and may change as authorities release additional findings. Readers should consult qualified professionals regarding their individual circumstances. For more information, please review our disclaimer.
If you or a loved one were affected by a serious collision, contact a Connecticut personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal rights and determine whether a claim may be available.