New Hampshire officials issue warning after 10 people killed in car crashes in 4 days

Officials ask all residents to practice safe driving methods.

Nine separate car crashes over the past weekend killed 10 people across New Hampshire, state officials say. The causes of each crash are currently under investigation by state law enforcement agencies.

In a statement released Tuesday, New Hampshire Department of Safety (NHDS) Assistant Commissioner Eddie Edwards says the crashes could have been prevented by “better decision making.” He’s asking all residents and visitors to abide by posted speed limits, put their cell phones away, and to not drive under the influence.

“What’s happening on our roads is alarming and has resulted in tragic consequences,” Edwards said in the statement.

From July 12 to July 15, 10 people died in nine crashes in the state.

Edwards confirmed the fatal crashes took place in Alton, Belmont, Center Conway, Concord, Gilford, Hampton Falls, Jaffrey, and Loudon.

State Police Colonel Mark Hall says his department and the NHDS will increase their presence on major state arteries and highways.

“Let’s work together to make our roads safer for everyone,” Hall said in a statement. He says he encourages drivers to “do their part” in maintaining safe roads.

The NDHS says 64 people were killed by a car crash in New Hampshire this year. A report from the New Hampshire Highway Safety Improvement Program noted a drastic increase in crash-related fatalities in recent years, jumping from 100 in 2019 to 146 in 2022.