A Newark community is mourning the loss of two women who were killed Tuesday morning when a tractor-trailer overturned onto the vehicle they were traveling in on Interstate 78.
The victims were identified as 42-year-old Ayesha Wright and 25-year-old Kendra Rouse, both of Newark. According to New Jersey State Police, the women were traveling in a Chevrolet sedan when a Mack tractor-trailer hauling a utility trailer overturned onto their vehicle.
The crash happened at approximately 9:08 a.m. near milepost 56.8 on I-78 East in Newark.
Investigators said the tractor-trailer was traveling eastbound when it approached Wright’s Chevrolet, which had stopped in traffic in the left lane. The truck reportedly made an evasive steering maneuver before overturning onto the sedan.
Wright, who was driving, and Rouse, who was riding as a passenger, suffered fatal injuries. The driver of the tractor-trailer sustained minor injuries.
As news of their deaths spread, friends, relatives and former coworkers took to social media to remember the two women and share memories of the lives they touched.
Wright was remembered as a beloved sister, cousin and woman of faith. One family member shared an emotional tribute, describing Wright as someone who taught others how to praise and whose presence would be deeply missed.
Rouse was remembered for her warm smile, generosity and the relationships she built with people around her. A former coworker recalled their friendship, including sharing meals, homemade treats and everyday conversations.
Friends also remembered Rouse as a devoted mother who frequently spoke about her 3-year-old daughter and the love she had for her child.
For those who knew Wright and Rouse, the tragedy represents much more than a deadly highway crash. Their loved ones are now grieving the loss of two women who were sisters, cousins, friends, coworkers and, in Rouse’s case, a mother.
The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation by the New Jersey State Police.
The Newark and Essex County communities continue to extend their condolences to the families and loved ones of Ayesha Wright and Kendra Rouse during this difficult time.
