URGENT UPDATE: A tractor-trailer hauling several tons of candy flipped onto its side at the end of the Lowell Connector on Monday, just before 6 p.m. The dramatic incident left a trail of scattered gummy sharks and other sweets across the scene, causing significant disruption in the area.
Authorities report that the truck overturned near 492/494 Gorham Street, crushing a brick retaining wall and halting traffic as crews worked to clear the wreckage. Remarkably, there were no injuries reported, but the aftermath has left the intersection—known for its hazardous conditions—facing increased scrutiny.
Witnesses describe the chaos that ensued. Local resident Megan Avery recalled hearing “a screech and a loud crash” that shook her home. “I feared my car parked out front must have been struck,” she said, expressing her shock as she rushed outside to find the cab of the truck just a dozen feet from her door.
Footage from the scene shows the tractor-trailer lying on its passenger side, its 18 wheels exposed as rain fell. Emergency responders quickly confirmed through radio broadcasts that the vehicle was not carrying hazardous materials, but the candy cargo needed to be removed before the truck could be righted.
Crews utilized a forklift to extract crates of Maestro Massimo candy and other sweets from the toppled trailer, while tire tracks across a grassy divider marked the path the truck took before it crashed. The vehicle also caused damage to a utility pole, a pedestrian traffic signal, and an exit sign, further complicating the situation.
Police have completed their investigation into the crash and reported that no charges will be filed. However, the incident has reignited discussions about safety measures at this notorious intersection, despite various warning signs aimed at alerting drivers to the Connector’s abrupt end.
As traffic was blocked in both directions along Gorham Street for several hours, local residents expressed their concerns about the recurring accidents at this site. “Should equip that poor wall with airbags,” joked one local on social media, highlighting the community’s frustration.
Authorities are now urging drivers to exercise caution in the area as cleanup continues. The investigation into the crash’s precise cause remains ongoing, leaving residents on edge about future incidents.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops and follow Aaron Curtis on X @aselahcurtis, or on Bluesky @aaronscurtis.bsky.social for real-time updates.
