Kennebec County, ME — January 16, 2025, Phillip Marson was killed following a car accident that occurred at around 7:00 A.M. on I-95.

An investigation is underway following a car accident that left one person dead during the morning hours of January 16th. According to official reports, emergency dispatchers received a call about a single vehicle accident involving a Nissan pickup truck along the southbound lanes of I-95.
When first responders arrived on the scene they found that the pickup had struck trees in the median of the highway, where they discovered 69-year-old Phillip Marson, who had sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased. At this time the cause of the crash remains unknown, however this is an ongoing investigation and more details may be released in the future.
Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman
When accidents like this occur, it is essential to ensure that a thorough investigation is conducted to understand the causes and provide answers to those affected. According to reports, a single-vehicle accident involving a Nissan pickup truck occurred in the southbound lanes of I-95, where the vehicle struck trees in the median. The driver was pronounced deceased at the scene. As authorities investigate, there are three key questions that must be addressed to uncover the full circumstances of the crash.
First, did the authorities thoroughly investigate the crash? Single-vehicle accidents are often assumed to result from driver error, but this assumption should not be made without a detailed analysis. Investigators need to assess the scene for factors like road conditions, weather, visibility, and the possibility of wildlife or debris that might have caused the driver to swerve. The position of the vehicle and any skid marks should also be examined to understand the vehicle’s trajectory. Witness statements or surveillance footage from nearby traffic cameras, if available, could provide further clarity.
Second, has anyone considered whether a vehicle defect might have contributed to the crash? Mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions, steering issues, or a tire blowout, could cause a driver to lose control, especially at highway speeds. The specific dynamics of the crash—striking trees in the median—might also point to a possible loss of control due to a defect. Preserving the vehicle for forensic examination is critical to identifying whether any mechanical issues played a role. Unfortunately, this step is often overlooked unless explicitly pursued.
Finally, has all the electronic data relating to the crash been collected? Modern vehicles are equipped with electronic control modules (ECMs) that record key information, including speed, braking, and steering inputs leading up to an accident. This data can help determine whether the driver attempted to avoid the collision or if a mechanical issue made such efforts impossible. Additionally, any dash camera footage or nearby surveillance could provide visual evidence of what occurred. Collecting and preserving this data promptly is essential, as it can be lost or overwritten over time.
Answering these questions is vital to understanding the causes of this crash and providing clarity for those affected. Single-vehicle accidents can involve a combination of factors, including environmental conditions, mechanical issues, and unforeseen circumstances. By ensuring a comprehensive investigation that examines all possibilities, authorities can work toward uncovering the truth and preventing similar incidents in the future.