Higganum, CT (March 1, 2026) – Three people were taken to the hospital on Friday night, February 27, after a two-vehicle crash on Candlewood Hill Road in Higganum, according to fire officials. Emergency units were dispatched to the scene around 8:45 p.m. following reports of a serious collision south of Jacoby Road.
When crews arrived, both vehicles were found off the roadway. One vehicle had come to rest in a snow embankment with an occupant trapped inside. Firefighters worked to free the individual while requesting a medical helicopter to assist with transport.
The entrapped person was taken to a landing zone on Saint Peter’s Lane and airlifted to Hartford Hospital due to serious injuries. State police later said the injuries were not considered life-threatening. A passenger from the same vehicle and the driver of the second vehicle were transported by ambulance to Middlesex Hospital. The extent of their injuries has not been officially released.
Candlewood Hill Road was shut down in both directions as crews cleared debris and addressed fluid spills from the vehicles. Traffic was impacted during the response and cleanup efforts.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
We are thinking of everyone injured and wish them strength as they continue to recover.
Why Nighttime Crashes on Rural Roads Often Lead to Serious Injuries
Crashes on rural roads at night can be especially dangerous due to reduced visibility, narrow shoulders, and limited lighting. Drivers may have less time to react to unexpected hazards, particularly when road conditions include snow or ice.
When vehicles leave the roadway and strike embankments or fixed objects, the risk of occupants becoming trapped increases. These situations often require extended rescue operations and specialized equipment. Investigators typically review roadway conditions, vehicle positions, and visibility factors to determine how these crashes unfold and why injuries occur.
