Two Young Men Identified in Fatal Johnston Crash Involving Garbage Truck

In a devastating accident early Thursday morning, two young men lost their lives after a collision between a car and a garbage truck on Hartford Avenue in Johnston. Johnston Police identified the victims as Devonte Parissi, 22, of Central Falls, and Kendell Dublin, also 22, from Taunton. The incident occurred around 4:15 a.m. when officers responded to reports of a severe two-vehicle crash along the normally quiet roadway.

According to preliminary police findings, Parissi was driving a Toyota Corolla with Dublin and another passenger, a 22-year-old from Attleboro, as passengers. The car was traveling eastbound on Hartford Avenue when it suddenly swerved into the oncoming lane, colliding head-on with a MEGA Disposal garbage truck. The cause of the sudden lane change remains unclear, though investigators are working to determine if speed, distraction, or other factors were involved.

Parissi was pronounced dead at the scene, and Dublin, who was seated in the back seat, also succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash. The third passenger in the Corolla, whose name has not been released, survived the impact but remains in critical condition at a nearby hospital. Medical personnel are closely monitoring his condition as he receives intensive care. His survival offers a glimmer of hope amid the tragedy, though his long-term prognosis remains uncertain.

The driver of the garbage truck was fortunately unharmed in the collision, though the incident left the vehicle severely damaged. MEGA Disposal issued a statement expressing condolences to the families of the victims and cooperation with the ongoing investigation. The company also extended support to its driver, who was reportedly deeply shaken by the incident.

Johnston Police have stressed the importance of caution on Hartford Avenue, particularly given the frequency of early morning and late-night accidents due to limited visibility and varying traffic speeds. They are urging witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to come forward, as this may assist in reconstructing the events leading up to the accident.

This tragedy serves as a reminder of the dangers present on the roads, particularly when unexpected maneuvers are involved. Authorities encourage drivers to remain vigilant and practice defensive driving to prevent similar incidents.