BRIDPORT — Two New Jersey residents are dead following a single-vehicle crash on Monday, Dec. 23, on Route 22A in Bridport, near Carrs Lane.

Vermont State Police identified the deceased as Mark Axelrod, 78, and Francine Axelrod, 76, both of River Edge, N.J.

Police said their investigation indicated Mark Axelrod was driving the couple’s 2015 Chevy Impala south on Route 22A at around 11:30 a.m. when it gradually left the southbound lane, struck a telephone pole, overturned, and came to a stop, upside-down. Both Mark and Francine Axelrod were pronounced deceased at the scene.

Police described the road conditions as being dry; both Axelrods were wearing seatbelts, according to state police.

Neither speed nor impairment are suspected as contributing factors at this time, according to state police. The investigation is in its early stages and the cause of the crash is still unknown. Anyone who witnessed the crash or has any relevant information is asked to call the New Haven Barracks at 802-388-4919.

State police troopers were assisted on scene by members of the Addison County Sheriff’s Department, Bridport Fire Department, Middlebury Regional EMS and Town Line First Response.