Gilford, NH — November 15, 2025 — A devastating traffic incident on the Route 3/11 Bypass Friday afternoon resulted in the deaths of two individuals and left one person injured, sending shockwaves through the Lakes Region community. The crash involved three vehicles and is under active investigation by Gilford authorities.
What Happened: Fatal Collision on Route 3/11 Bypass
The Route 3/11 Bypass crash occurred Friday afternoon when a vehicle veered into oncoming traffic, colliding head-on with two other automobiles. The collision involved two northbound vehicles and one southbound vehicle. Emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene to manage the situation, securing the area and providing medical aid.
Tragically, 20-year-old Grady Shoemaker of Laconia and 63-year-old Renee Privitera of Belmont were pronounced dead at the scene. Another individual sustained minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital, while one person emerged unharmed. The incident forced authorities to temporarily close the bypass between Gilford Avenue and Lakeshore Road, reopening the roadway around 7:40 p.m.
Officials in Gilford are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash to contact the police at 603-527-4737 to assist in the ongoing investigation. The cause of the vehicle crossing the center line remains under review, and authorities have yet to confirm specific factors leading to the tragic accident.
Who Was Grady Shoemaker and Renee Privitera
Grady Shoemaker, 20, was a promising young man from Laconia, known in his community for his energy, warmth, and dedication to friends and family. His untimely death leaves a profound void among those who knew him, with family and neighbors grappling with the sudden loss of such a cherished individual.
Renee Privitera, 63, of Belmont, was a well-loved figure in her community. Renowned for her kindness and strong personal connections, she touched the lives of many through her generosity and commitment to her family and friends. Both Shoemaker and Privitera are remembered as compassionate members of their respective towns, leaving behind grieving families and a supportive community.
Legacy and Community Impact
The deaths of Grady Shoemaker and Renee Privitera have highlighted the importance of safe driving on busy roadways. The incident has left lasting grief in the Lakes Region, with community members honoring the legacies of the victims through shared stories and acts of remembrance. Shoemaker is remembered as a young man full of potential, while Privitera’s life is celebrated for her dedication to family and local connections.
Emergency personnel, including local police and first responders, were praised for their swift action, which helped stabilize the scene and prevent additional injuries during the chaotic aftermath of the crash.
Public and Social Media Reactions
Support and tributes have poured in for the families of Grady Shoemaker and Renee Privitera. Community members have shared heartfelt messages, remembering Shoemaker’s vibrancy and Privitera’s warmth. Many posts on social media include hashtags like #RIPGradyShoemaker, #RememberReneePrivitera, and #LakesRegionTragedy, reflecting the collective mourning across the region.
Friends, neighbors, and local leaders have emphasized the importance of supporting the bereaved families during this difficult time. Messages on platforms such as Facebook and Twitter highlight both grief and solidarity, underscoring the tight-knit nature of the Lakes Region communities.
Official Statements and Next Steps
Gilford authorities are continuing the investigation into the Route 3/11 Bypass crash. Police are examining vehicle positions, driver statements, and potential roadway factors to determine why one vehicle crossed the center line.
Families of Grady Shoemaker and Renee Privitera have expressed deep sorrow and appreciation for community support, asking for privacy as they mourn. Funeral and memorial details are expected to be shared soon, allowing friends, neighbors, and the public to pay their respects.
The incident stands as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the critical need for attentive driving, especially on busy highways. The Gilford Police Department continues to request that anyone with information about the accident come forward to aid in the investigation.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
The post Tragic Route 3/11 Bypass Crash Claims Lives of Grady Shoemaker and Renee Privitera in Lakes Region first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
