Easton, MA (February 27, 2026) – A 78-year-old man was seriously injured in a three-vehicle crash early on Friday, February 27, on Rte 138 in Easton. Emergency units responded to the scene at about 2:30 a.m. after a dump truck, pickup truck, and sedan collided in the southbound lanes.
Officials said a 1993 Mack dump truck was stopped along the roadside when a 2013 Ford F-350 struck the rear of the truck. Shortly after, a 2024 Toyota Camry crashed into the back of the pickup truck and caught fire. The Camry driver became trapped inside the burning vehicle as flames spread.
Two bystanders and a responding officer worked together to break the vehicle window and safely remove the trapped driver. The man suffered serious injuries and was taken to a local hospital for treatment. The pickup truck driver exited their vehicle and was not injured.
Authorities closed Rte 138 for several hours while crews investigated the crash and cleared the scene. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash. We are thinking of those injured as they recover.
How Rear-End Collisions Can Lead to Chain-Reaction Crashes
Chain-reaction crashes often occur when one vehicle strikes another, causing a sudden stop in traffic. The following vehicles may not have enough time or distance to slow down, leading to multiple impacts in a short period.
These crashes can become more dangerous if vehicles catch fire or occupants become trapped inside. Fire risks increase when fuel systems are damaged during a collision.
Maintaining a safe following distance and staying alert can help reduce the chance of rear-end collisions. Drivers should also be cautious when approaching stopped or disabled vehicles on roadways.
