23-year-old Massachusetts man killed in crash on Route 495 remembered for calm and gentle spirit

Community members are remembering a young Massachusetts man killed in a recent highway crash.

On May 16th, a fatal single-vehicle crash occurred on Interstate 495 northbound in Chelmsford, Massachusetts, near the rest area.

Massachusetts State Police responded shortly after 3:25 a.m. to reports of a rollover. The vehicle, which had struck a guardrail and rolled over into the median, was found by emergency personnel.

According to Chelmsford Fire Department Chief Gary Ryan, the driver was extricated but pronounced dead at the scene. A female passenger, identified as the driver’s sister and a University of Massachusetts Amherst student, was ejected from the vehicle and suffered traumatic injuries. She was transported to Lowell General Hospital for treatment.

The crash led to the closure of all northbound lanes for approximately three hours for investigation and evidence collection.

Family members say that 23-year-old Emmanuel Onyeneho was a loving son, brother and cousin who tragically lost his life in a devastating car accident while driving with his younger sister back from college after moving out for the year. While she is currently recovering from her injuries, they mourn the sudden and painful loss of Emmanuel. 

“Emmanuel had a calm, gentle spirit. He was soft-spoken, yet full of heart. He always showed up for his loved ones and quietly carried the weight of responsibility. Though his life was marked by hardship and personal loss, Emmanuel remained steady and kind, always devoted to his family. He faced adversity with quiet strength and unwavering love. 

“He was an active, vibrant young man who lived life to the fullest. Emmanuel loved being on the move. Whether he was playing basketball, attending concerts, or spending time with friends, he found joy in staying connected and embracing every moment. His energy and passion for life left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.”

Aaron’s Presents, a youth organization that the brother and sister were involved in, has created a GoFundMe fundraiser that has raised just over $10,000 as of this writing.

The crash is still under investigation.