Danville, NH – Two people were killed Wednesday afternoon after a head-on crash on Route 111A, and a local driver now faces multiple felony charges, including negligent homicide, according to New Hampshire State Police.
According to State Police, troopers responded around 4:47 p.m. Wednesday to a severe crash on Main Street (Route 111A) near Coburn Hill Road in Danville. Troopers from Troop A and the Collision Analysis and Reconstruction (C.A.R.) Unit assumed control of the investigation upon arrival.
Investigators said a 2023 Dodge Challenger, driven by Derek P. Cote, 41, of Danville, was traveling northbound when it allegedly crossed the double yellow center lines into oncoming traffic. The vehicle collided head-on with a southbound 2016 Nissan Altima driven by Brian Morris Sr., 65, with passenger Brian Morris Jr., 36, both of Fremont.
Following the impact, the Dodge reportedly rolled onto the northbound shoulder, while the Nissan spun and came to rest on the opposite side of the roadway. Fire crews worked to free both occupants of the Nissan, but despite extensive life-saving efforts, both men were pronounced deceased at the scene.
Cote was transported to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. During the investigation, troopers said Cote allegedly showed signs of impairment. He was subsequently charged with two felony counts of negligent homicide and felony aggravated driving under the influence of drugs.
Cote was held at the Rockingham County Jail pending arraignment scheduled for Friday, January 2, 2026, in Brentwood District Court.
Route 111A was closed between Happy Hollow Road and Coburn Hill Road for approximately five hours while investigators processed the scene and crews cleared debris. The roadway reopened at 9:14 p.m.
The crash remains under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact Trooper Eric Torrens at Eric.M.Torrens@dos.nh.gov.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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