A Vermont woman is facing charges after allegedly using an emergency-only crossover on Interstate 295 in Yarmouth, triggering a four-vehicle chain-reaction crash and leaving the scene, according to Maine State Police.
Troopers responded to reports of a multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 295 southbound in Yarmouth on Friday, April 3, 2026, at approximately 4:18 p.m.
Following a preliminary investigation, troopers determined the crash began when a vehicle traveling southbound improperly used an “authorized vehicles only” crossover to enter the northbound lanes. The dangerous maneuver set off a chain-reaction crash involving four vehicles.
According to police, the driver responsible for the crash left the scene before troopers arrived.
A witness at the scene provided troopers with a photograph of the vehicle involved, a black 2026 Jeep Compass, including a clear image of the registration plate. That information allowed investigators to quickly identify both the vehicle and its registered owner.
The operator was identified as 31-year-old Emily-Ann Kittredge of Lyndonville, Vermont. Troopers later located Kittredge in Portland, where she was charged with Leaving the Scene of an Accident along with additional motor vehicle violations.
Authorities reported that no injuries resulted from the crash despite the multi-vehicle impact. The roadway was cleared quickly, and all lanes were reopened to traffic shortly after emergency crews responded.
State Police reminded motorists that authorized vehicle crossovers are strictly reserved for emergency responders and highway maintenance crews. Unauthorized use of those crossovers can create dangerous and unpredictable traffic situations, placing motorists at significant risk.
The crash remains under investigation.
