Gunfire Erupts on I-91 South in North Haven; No Injuries Reported as Police Launch Investigation
A startling and dangerous situation unfolded Thursday afternoon on Interstate 91 South near Exit 10 in North Haven, Connecticut, after multiple gunshots were reportedly fired in what authorities are calling a roadside confrontation between unidentified individuals. Although no injuries have been reported, the alarming nature of the incident prompted a swift response from Connecticut State Police, including the temporary shutdown of a significant portion of the highway and the launch of a full-scale investigation.
đźš” Immediate Response and Interstate Closure
The incident occurred around 1:20 p.m., during busy midday travel, when several 911 calls came in reporting shots fired from at least one vehicle traveling southbound. Connecticut State Police quickly arrived on the scene, secured the area, and closed off I-91 South between Exits 10 and 9 as investigators worked to collect evidence and ensure the safety of motorists.
Aerial footage from news helicopters showed police cruisers lined along the highway shoulder, with multiple officers examining the roadway and grassy medians. Forensic teams were also observed documenting the scene, marking what appeared to be shell casings and possible impact points on the roadway.
Traffic was diverted to alternate routes, causing significant congestion in and around the North Haven area for several hours.
🔍 Details of the Shooting
While details remain limited due to the ongoing nature of the investigation, police believe that two vehicles may have been involved in a confrontation that escalated into gunfire. Witnesses reported seeing a dark-colored sedan and a light SUV engaged in what looked like aggressive driving behavior shortly before the shots were heard.
“At this point, we do not have any reports of injuries, and no one has been taken into custody,” said Connecticut State Police Sgt. Elena Morano during a brief press update. “We are actively working to identify those involved and determine what led to the confrontation.”
State troopers are currently reviewing traffic camera footage, collecting witness statements, and seeking surveillance footage from nearby overpasses and local businesses that may have captured the incident.
🚨 Public Safety Concerns
Though no bystanders were hurt, the fact that gunfire erupted in broad daylight on a busy interstate has sparked concerns about the growing frequency of violence on Connecticut’s roads.
“It’s horrifying,” said North Haven resident Patrick T., who was driving a few hundred feet behind the suspected vehicles. “I saw brake lights and then heard popping sounds—it took me a moment to realize it wasn’t construction noise. People were swerving, trying to get away. It was chaos.”
Officials emphasized that the situation is being treated with the highest priority, not only to locate and apprehend the individuals responsible but also to reassure the public that I-91 is safe to travel. Patrols along the interstate have been temporarily increased as a precautionary measure.
đź“ž Call for Information
The Connecticut State Police are asking anyone who witnessed the incident or who may have dashcam footage from the area between 1:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. on July 3 to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously by calling 860-534-1000 or through the state’s crime tip website.
Police have not yet confirmed whether the shooting is linked to any ongoing investigations or prior road rage incidents in the region.
🛣️ I-91 South Reopened After Hours-Long Closure
By 5:15 p.m., the affected section of I-91 South was reopened, though residual traffic delays continued through the evening. Law enforcement continues to maintain a presence in the area as part of the active investigation.
đź“Ś Moving Forward
While the motive behind Thursday’s roadside gunfire remains unclear, officials have reiterated their commitment to ensuring public safety on the state’s roadways.
“This was a reckless act that endangered the lives of dozens of innocent motorists,” Sgt. Morano added. “We will leave no stone unturned in bringing those responsible to justice.”
As the July 4th holiday weekend approaches, law enforcement agencies are urging drivers to remain vigilant, report suspicious behavior, and prioritize safety—on and off the roads.