Four-car pileup on I-89 near Winooski River Bridge causes traffic delays, one injured

WINOOSKI — A multi-vehicle collision on Interstate 89 North near the Winooski River Bridge resulted in significant traffic delays and one person being transported to the hospital on Dec. 8.

The crash occurred at about 5:24 p.m. at MM 90, near exit 15 during heavy traffic.

According to Vermont State Police, the accident involved four cars and led to the temporary closure of the interstate’s left lane.

Preliminary findings suggest that a 2023 Toyota Corolla operated by Alaina Boulet, 34, of Essex, failed to stop in time and rear-ended a 2007 SAAB 9-5 driven by 71-year-old Steven Coon of St. Albans.

The impact pushed Coon’s vehicle into a 2019 Honda CRV, operated by Michael Lavalley, 71, of Milton, which subsequently hit a 2017 Subaru Outback driven by 25-year-old Christopher Pendris of Fletcher.

Coon was taken to UVM Medical Center for treatment of suspected minor injuries.

No other injuries were reported by the operators, all of whom were wearing seat belts.

The affected lane was closed for around 40 minutes as emergency crews worked to clear the wreckage.

Traffic was reportedly congested between exits 15 and 16, with vehicles slowing down to exit at ramp 16.