The quiet town of Hooksett, New Hampshire, was struck by tragedy on the morning of June 3, 2025, when a devastating car accident claimed the lives of two women, Irene Roby, 82, of Candia, and Tammy Ortiz, 52, of Manchester. The collision, which occurred on Hooksett Road near the Allenstown town line, has left the community grappling with grief and a stark reminder of the fragility of life. As the sun rose just after 5:30 a.m., the lives of these two women were forever altered in a moment of unintended distraction, leaving families, friends, and neighbors to mourn their loss.
Irene Roby, a beloved resident of Candia, was driving her Nissan Rogue southbound when, according to the Hooksett Police Department, she became distracted while adjusting the heat controls in her vehicle. This fleeting moment of inattention caused her to cross the center line into oncoming traffic, where her car collided head-on with a Hyundai Kona driven by Tammy Ortiz. The impact was catastrophic, leaving both vehicles severely damaged and their drivers critically injured. Emergency responders, including Hooksett Police, fire, and rescue teams, arrived swiftly at the scene around 5:40 a.m., working tirelessly to extricate the victims. Both Roby and Ortiz were rushed to a nearby hospital, where, despite medical efforts, they were pronounced dead. A passenger in Ortiz’s vehicle, whose identity has not been disclosed, was also seriously injured and remains in critical condition, fighting for recovery in the aftermath of the crash.
The Hooksett Crash Reconstruction Unit, tasked with piecing together the events leading to the collision, has pointed to driver distraction as the primary cause. Their investigation suggests that Roby’s focus on her vehicle’s climate controls led to the tragic error that sent her car into the northbound lane. This finding underscores a broader issue of distracted driving, a persistent danger on roads nationwide. While the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward, hoping to provide further clarity to the families and the community. Detective Trevor Dearden, reachable at 603-624-1560, is leading the effort to gather witness accounts and ensure a thorough examination of the incident.
Irene Roby was known in Candia as a warm and active member of her community, her 82 years filled with quiet contributions to those around her. Neighbors described her as a kind soul, always ready with a smile or a helping hand. Tammy Ortiz, a Manchester resident, was a vibrant 52-year-old whose presence touched many lives. Friends and family remember her as a dedicated individual with a zest for life, her loss leaving a void that will be felt deeply. The passenger in Ortiz’s car, still battling severe injuries, has become a focal point of community prayers and support, with local residents rallying to offer assistance to the affected families.
The stretch of Hooksett Road where the accident occurred is a familiar route for many in the region, a two-lane road that connects communities and carries both local traffic and commuters. The crash temporarily closed the road, disrupting the morning routines of residents and serving as a somber reminder of the need for vigilance behind the wheel. Hooksett Police have since reopened the road but are encouraging drivers to remain cautious and avoid distractions, no matter how minor they may seem.
This tragedy has sparked conversations about road safety in Hooksett and beyond. Distracted driving, whether caused by adjusting vehicle controls, using a phone, or other activities, remains a leading cause of accidents across the United States. The loss of Roby and Ortiz has prompted local officials to consider additional measures to promote safe driving, including public awareness campaigns and potential enhancements to road signage in the area. Community leaders are also exploring ways to honor the memory of the two women, with discussions of a memorial or safety initiative in their names.
As Hooksett mourns, the families of Irene Roby and Tammy Ortiz are left to navigate the profound pain of their sudden loss. The community has come together in solidarity, offering condolences and support through vigils and shared remembrances. For now, the investigation continues, and the hope for answers persists, but the focus remains on healing and remembering two lives cut short. The story of this tragic day serves as a poignant call to all drivers to remain focused, to cherish each moment, and to recognize the profound impact of a single second on the road.
