Tragedy struck early Sunday morning on a Phoenix freeway when two people were killed in a collision involving a vehicle driving the wrong way. According to the Arizona Department of Public Safety, which was reported by ABC15, the fatal event occurred around 2:15 a.m. near Loop 202 and Elliot Road. The wrong-way vehicle reportedly collided head-on with another vehicle, shortly after being spotted entering the freeway in the wrong direction.
Troubling as it is, this incident marks the 14th reported wrong-way crash on Valley freeways this year alone, and the sixth to result in loss of life. Attempting to manage the situation, a third car was also involved in the crash when they hit the first two vehicles, which was evidenced by 12News. Despite the mayhem, the occupants in the third vehicle maintained their composure, preventing any further injuries by bringing their car to a controlled stop.
The Arizona Department of Public Safety believes impairment was a contributing factor, as both the drivers of the first two vehicles, who were pronounced deceased at the scene, were alone in their respective cars. The official identities of those involved have not yet been disclosed as the investigation is ongoing. Cumulatively, at least nine people have been claimed by these wrong-way collisions so far, as per the data from ABC15.
The northbound lanes of State Route 202, where the accident took place, were shut down for a significant portion of the day. They were reopened around 2 p.m. after an extensive on-scene investigation by the authorities. As reported by 12News, the police continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash and will provide updates as they become available.
