3 highway workers dead after they were hit by SUV traveling at 'very high rate of speed'

A 29-year-old man from Massachusetts, Balil Griffith, was arraigned after a tragic crash on Interstate 91 that resulted in the deaths of three workers early Friday morning. The Hampden District Attorney, Anthony Gulluni, reported that the accident occurred around 12:45 a.m. when Griffith's SUV exited the highway at a high speed, striking the men who were part of a crew repairing guardrails.

The workers, affiliated with Premier Fencing Company, were identified as Igor Costa, Ryan Almeida, and Raul Bohorquez, all of whom were pronounced dead at the scene. Following the collision, Griffith exited the vehicle and attempted to flee but was later apprehended after a police chase that ended on Morgan Road in West Springfield.

Griffith faces serious charges, including three counts of manslaughter and one count of leaving the scene of an accident resulting in injury or death. He was held on $1 million bail and is scheduled to appear again in court on April 2.

The Premier Fencing Company expressed their condolences and confirmed their cooperation with ongoing investigations. Local authorities, including the West Springfield Police and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, are conducting a thorough investigation into the crash.

This incident highlights the dangers of reckless driving, and the loss of the three workers has had a profound impact on their families and the community. The investigation continues as authorities seek to clarify the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.