Somersworth, NH (March 11, 2026) – A driver was seriously injured on Monday, March 9, after a rollover crash involving two vehicles and a utility pole on High Street in Somersworth, Strafford County.
Emergency units responded around 5:28 p.m. to the area of High Street near Tri City Road after reports of a rollover crash. Upon arrival, responders found two vehicles tangled in downed power lines after a utility pole had been knocked into the roadway.
Authorities said a 2019 Ford Ranger pickup truck had rolled onto its side with heavy front-end damage. The driver, identified as 72-year-old Roger Smith of Somersworth, was trapped inside the vehicle as bystanders attempted to assist under hazardous conditions. Smith was freed from the pickup and taken to Portsmouth Regional Hospital with serious injuries. Officials said the driver of the second vehicle, a 2017 Subaru Outback, was not hurt and was able to exit the vehicle despite it being covered in power lines.
The crash caused a major power outage and forced the closure of the entire High Street corridor for several hours while crews removed the vehicles and repaired the damaged utility pole. Authorities said alcohol does not appear to be a factor in the crash.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available.
Our thoughts are with the injured driver as he receives medical care.
How Utility Pole Crashes Can Lead to Road Closures and Power Outages
Crashes involving utility poles often create additional hazards beyond the initial collision. When a pole is struck, power lines can fall into the roadway, creating dangerous conditions for drivers, pedestrians, and emergency crews.
Live electrical lines may prevent responders from approaching vehicles until utility workers secure the power supply. This can delay rescue efforts and require specialized equipment to safely handle the scene.
Fallen poles can also block multiple travel lanes and disrupt nearby electrical service. Repairs often require crews to replace damaged poles, reconnect lines, and inspect surrounding infrastructure before roads can fully reopen.
Because of these risks, crashes involving power infrastructure frequently lead to extended road closures while the area is stabilized and electrical service is restored.
