Tragedy on I-195: Teenagers Kevin Dos Santos Lopes and Amilton De Pina Semedo Killed in Dartmouth Crash
DARTMOUTH, MA — A tragic crash on Interstate 195 westbound near Exit 19 (Reed Road) on Saturday, July 26, 2025, has claimed the lives of two teenagers, shattering families across two states and serving as a painful reminder of the vulnerability of young lives.
Victims Identified
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Kevin Dos Santos Lopes, 19, of New Bedford, Massachusetts
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Amilton De Pina Semedo, 18, of Pawtucket, Rhode Island
Both were ejected from their vehicle and later pronounced dead at St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford after being rushed to receive emergency care .
The Crash
The vehicle involved—a gray 2006 Chevrolet Equinox—was reportedly traveling on I‑195 around 1:30 p.m. when it veered off course, scaling a concrete median barrier before coming to rest on a grassy embankment. The force of the collision dislodged the vehicle’s engine, underscoring the severity of the accident .
Massachusetts State Police responded to multiple 911 calls at the scene, closing the westbound center and right lanes to allow investigation teams and tow operators to work safely .
Investigation Status
Bristol County District Attorney Thomas Quinn III has stated the incident is not considered suspicious, and the investigation remains active as state troopers and accident reconstruction experts work to determine the full chain of events . No criminal charges have been announced.
Community Reactions
News of the crash has devastated families in New Bedford and Pawtucket, with both communities mourning losses of such young promise.
Neighbors and schoolmates have described Kevin and Amilton as 활illing, kind, and spirited—young men eager to build their futures. Although no official statements have been released by their families, emotional tributes continue to pour in through social media and community message boards.
Road Safety Concerns Raised
Local residents and transportation advocates emphasize lessons from the crash:
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Drive defensively, especially on highways with abrupt exits and concrete barriers
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Ensure seatbelt use and correct seating positions to reduce the risk of ejection
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Maintain awareness of vehicle handling at highway speeds and avoid distractions—especially for younger, less experienced drivers
Next Steps
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Crash Reconstruction & Forensics
Authorities will combine on-scene assessments with vehicle data and any available surveillance footage to recreate the moments leading up to the crash. -
Autopsy & Medical Examination
The medical examiner’s office will issue findings on cause of death, confirming whether injury was due to blunt trauma, ejection, or other factors. -
Family Notification & Tributes
Following official contact with next of kin, funeral arrangements and public memorials are expected to be announced. -
Focus on Awareness
The crash has renewed calls from community leaders for heightened awareness around safe driving, especially for young drivers navigating highways.
Summary
A car crash on U.S. Interstate 195 near Exit 19 in Dartmouth claimed the precious lives of 19‑year‑old Kevin Dos Santos Lopes and 18‑year‑old Amilton De Pina Semedo when their vehicle crashed and ejected both teenagers. The incident, occurring around 1:30 p.m. on July 26, 2025, is under active investigation by Massachusetts State Police, though no foul play is currently suspected.
This double tragedy is gripping both Massachusetts and Rhode Island communities with grief, sparking conversations on road safety, and highlighting how abruptly young lives can be lost.
If you witnessed the crash or have relevant information, please contact Massachusetts State Police or the Bristol County District Attorney’s office.
Our thoughts are with the families, friends, and communities affected by this heartbreaking loss.