Warwick fatal crash victim identified

WARWICK, R.I. (WPRI) -- Warwick police are investigating after two overnight accidents, including one that claimed the life of a local driver.

The first crash happened just before midnight in the area of 1785 West Shore Road. According to police, a car hit a tree and became wedged between the tree and a pole.

"I heard this fantastic bang, and then another bang, and I thought somebody hit the house," said nearby resident Loretta Gough.

Emergency crews were forced to cut the roof off of the car to get to the driver, identified as 19-year-old Timothy Torres of Warwick. He was pronounced dead at the scene by the state medical examiner's office.

Several blocks of that area were closed during the investigation.

"Years ago we used to own a towing company, and we had to deal with those parents, and I know how tough it is to lose somebody in an accident, a young person," added Gough. "I've met a lot of parents who have lost young kids, and it's not easy."

Warwick police also responded to another crash several hours later. This one occurred on Palmer Avenue, not far from the first scene.

Eyewitnesses say a car struck a rock and then rolled over.

The female driver was taken to Kent County Hospital with minor injuries.

Police say wet roads were a factor in the Palmer Avenue accident.