Fiery Crash on I-81 Shuts Down Highway for Hours: Minivan Driver Ticketed
A fiery collision early Wednesday morning on Interstate 81 in the town of Lafayette temporarily shut down the northbound lanes for nearly two hours, according to New York State Police. The crash, reported at approximately 5:55 a.m. on July 2, involved a 2020 Chrysler minivan and a 2024 Freightliner tractor-trailer, igniting a fire that spread quickly and forced emergency crews into action.
Troopers responded to the northbound section of I-81 near Lafayette, where they found the minivan driven by Jacob E. Hagenbuch, 28, of Central Square, had slammed into the rear trailer of the Freightliner operated by 43-year-old Guybenson Louis Jean of Orlando, Florida. Investigators determined that Hagenbuch’s vehicle was traveling northbound when it struck the back of the tractor-trailer, igniting a blaze that engulfed the Chrysler and spread to the trailer.
Hagenbuch was able to escape the burning minivan before it became fully engulfed, authorities said. He was transported by ambulance to Upstate Hospital with injuries described as non-life-threatening. The driver of the Freightliner was uninjured in the incident.
Highway Closed as Fire Spreads After Following Too Close
As a result of the collision and subsequent fire, I-81 northbound was closed between Tully (Exit 67) and Lafayette (Exit 73) for approximately two hours while firefighters worked to suppress the flames and clean up debris. State Police confirmed that both vehicles suffered significant fire damage, particularly the minivan, which was charred beyond recognition.
Authorities cited Hagenbuch for following too close, an infraction under New York traffic law. Investigators believe traffic conditions may have contributed to the crash, but no additional factors such as impairment or reckless driving were cited at this time.
State Police reminded drivers to maintain a safe following distance, particularly on busy interstates where traffic conditions can change rapidly. “This is a clear reminder of the importance of leaving enough space between vehicles,” a State Police spokesperson said, emphasizing that tailgating can have devastating and even deadly consequences.
Traffic resumed on I-81 shortly before 8 a.m., with all lanes reopened after crews finished extinguishing the fire and clearing the charred wreckage. The incident caused a lengthy traffic backup for morning commuters, but no additional accidents were reported in the congestion.
Motorists traveling through the corridor expressed relief that the crash did not result in any fatalities and praised the fast response from emergency crews. As summer travel increases along I-81, State Police urged caution and patience to help avoid similar accidents in the future.
