Virginia State Police are investigating a devastating multi-vehicle accident that claimed the lives of two Ohio residents, Nicholas R. Oleski and Justine A. Hitchcock, in the early hours of Tuesday, November 19, 2024. The tragic collision occurred at approximately 2:55 a.m. near mile marker 9 on Interstate 77 North in Carroll County, Virginia. Both victims were traveling in a 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA250 when a sequence of events unfolded, resulting in a catastrophic chain-reaction crash involving three additional vehicles.
Nicholas R. Oleski, a 34-year-old Cleveland attorney with a promising career at McCarthy, Lebit, Crystal & Liffman Co., LPA, was driving the Mercedes-Benz northbound on I-77 with Justine A. Hitchcock, also 34 and a Cleveland native, as his passenger. The incident began when Oleski lost control of the vehicle, veering off the left side of the roadway. The car collided with the end of a guardrail before spinning back onto the interstate. In its path, the Mercedes-Benz struck a 2019 Ford F250, then sideswiped a 2023 Volvo VRN tractor-trailer, and finally collided with a 2025 Peterbilt tractor-trailer before coming to a stop on the right side of the highway.
First responders arrived swiftly at the scene but were met with grim circumstances. Justine Hitchcock was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash due to the severe impact. Nicholas Oleski was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries despite medical efforts. Both Oleski and Hitchcock were confirmed to have been wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash. The drivers of the other vehicles involved, including the operators of the Ford F250 and the two tractor-trailers, escaped the accident without any reported injuries.
The Virginia State Police have launched a detailed investigation into the accident to determine the contributing factors. Preliminary findings suggest that weather conditions and vehicle speeds at the time of the crash are being examined, along with mechanical inspections of the vehicles involved. Investigators are also reviewing roadway conditions and visibility factors in the area near mile marker 9, which has seen previous accidents due to its challenging layout.
This tragic accident has left the Cleveland community mourning the loss of two cherished individuals. Nicholas R. Oleski, described by his colleagues at McCarthy, Lebit, Crystal & Liffman Co., LPA, as a brilliant attorney and a deeply valued team member, was remembered for his sharp intellect, dedication, and warmth. His firm issued a heartfelt statement expressing their profound grief: “Nick was not only a gifted lawyer but also a treasured friend to everyone at McCarthy Lebit. His passing is an immense loss to our firm and to all who had the privilege of knowing him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Justine A. Hitchcock, whose family has not yet released her formal obituary or funeral arrangements, was remembered by friends and loved ones as a kind-hearted and compassionate individual who brought joy to those around her. Tributes have poured in on social media, with friends sharing memories of her generosity and uplifting spirit. Her family has requested privacy as they navigate the overwhelming grief of her sudden passing.
The collision has prompted discussions about highway safety on I-77, particularly in areas prone to severe accidents. Mile marker 9 in Carroll County is known for its steep grades and sharp curves, which can pose significant challenges for drivers unfamiliar with the terrain. Advocates for road safety are calling for enhanced measures, including improved signage, better lighting, and additional guardrails, to prevent future tragedies. Virginia State Police continue to urge drivers to exercise caution on the interstate, especially during nighttime hours and in potentially hazardous conditions.
While the investigation is ongoing, the crash has underscored the importance of vigilance and preparedness on the road. Authorities have reminded drivers of the critical need to maintain safe speeds, wear seatbelts, and ensure their vehicles are in optimal condition before embarking on long journeys. This tragic event serves as a somber reminder of the unpredictable nature of life and the devastating impact of road accidents.
As the Cleveland community and the families of Nicholas Oleski and Justine Hitchcock grapple with their immense loss, plans for memorial services are beginning to take shape. The legal community, colleagues, and clients of Oleski are expected to pay tribute to his life and contributions through a formal service organized by his firm. Friends and family of Justine are planning a private ceremony to celebrate her life and honor her memory.
Support for the grieving families has been widespread. Fundraising efforts and community initiatives have emerged to provide financial assistance and emotional support to those affected. In times of tragedy, the power of communal solidarity offers a glimmer of hope and strength for the road ahead. For now, the focus remains on remembering Nicholas and Justine for the lives they lived, the joy they brought to others, and the legacies they leave behind.
As the investigation unfolds, updates will continue to be provided by the Virginia State Police. The hope is that a comprehensive understanding of the events leading up to the crash will offer some measure of closure to the grieving families and serve as a catalyst for improved road safety measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
