NEWPORT — Details are emerging in the two fatal car crashes that took place in Orleans County this morning.
Police responded at around 6:00 a.m. to a two-vehicle crash on Vermont Route 100 in Newport Center by Tetreault Road.
A 2015 Ford Edge was fully engulfed in flames when police arrived.
According to the police report, the driver of the Ford, identified as James Robitaille, 33, of Montgomery, was killed during the crash.
Police say the second vehicle, a 2010 Chevrolet Malibu, was located on its roof and the sole occupant was also pronounced deceased.
The driver was identified as Rex Starr, 68, of Lowell.
Police say the crash remains under investigation, but it appears as though Robitaille was traveling southbound and began to pass another vehicle at the crest of a hill, and collided with Starr, traveling in the northbound lane.
Police say during the initial investigation, the report of the second crash in the town of Morgan was received.
This was a single-vehicle crash on Vermont Route 111 by Barter Road.
The operator, identified as Daniel Frascoia, 27, of Newport, was also pronounced deceased.
The vehicle was located off of the westbound travel lane when police arrived.
“Based on evidence at the scene, the crash likely occurred during the early morning hours and is estimated at around 5:00 a.m.” Trooper Abigail Drew said in a statement.
Both crashes remain under investigation at this time.
These are two horrific accidents that will resonate through our communities . Which just happened so so many times since I’ve moved to the Northeast Kingdom . Horrible it it just keeps happening over and over again . Too many deaths for such a small community God bless to families and friends to everyone that is devastated this holiday weekend.
Rex Starr was my cousin. He was loved. I found out on facebook. My sympathy to our family.