Troy, OH (June 29, 2026) – Emergency units responded to the scene of a crash after a Chevrolet Impala struck the rear of a disabled tractor-trailer that had been stopped on the right shoulder within a construction zone.
The incident reportedly happened on Interstate 75 northbound in Troy on Saturday, June 27. According to investigators, a 2010 Freightliner tractor-trailer had pulled off the roadway because of a mechanical problem and was completely out of the travel lanes. Several minutes later, a northbound 2005 Chevrolet Impala left its lane, entered the construction zone, and collided with the back of the parked truck.
The Freightliner was driven by 43-year-old Derek Blakely, who was not injured. The driver of the Chevrolet, identified as 21-year-old Yukahn Riffel, suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. More details regarding the incident will be released as soon as they become available.
We offer our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones.
Why Disabled Vehicles Can Still Be at Risk on Highways
A disabled vehicle parked on the shoulder is generally positioned outside the normal flow of traffic, but it can still face serious risks. Drivers who become distracted, fatigued, or impaired may drift from their lane and enter the shoulder without realizing it. Construction zones can also narrow lanes and reduce the space available for drivers to recover if they veer off course.
Large commercial vehicles stopped because of mechanical issues usually activate hazard lights and follow safety procedures while waiting for assistance. Even so, collisions can occur if approaching drivers fail to remain in their lane. Maintaining attention, reducing speed in work zones, and avoiding distractions are simple steps that help lower the risk of crashes involving disabled vehicles along busy highways.
