A fatal collision occurred on the Lowell Connector when a driver, later identified as Derek Witzenman, 29, of Woburn, was reportedly traveling the wrong way, according to NBC Boston. The crash, which took place around 1:15 a.m. near Exit 5A on Wednesday, claimed the life of another driver after Witzenman's vehicle collided with theirs head-on.
The aftermath of the incident led to Massachusetts State Police shutting down all inbound travel lanes while the scene was investigated, a disruption that lasted until approximately 4 a.m. Witzenman faces several charges, including operating under the influence of liquor and negligent operation, among them. He is scheduled for an arraignment in Lowell District Court later Wednesday, reports WCVB.
Both the driver of the struck vehicle and their passenger were rushed to Lowell General Hospital initially, before being transported by Medflight to a Boston-area hospital for further care. Sadly, the driver succumbed to their injuries. Authorities have not released the names of the victims as they notify next of kin.
The investigation into the crash by state police is ongoing at this time. This event adds to the troubling instances, of wrong-way driving incidents that have severe and often tragic outcomes. Further details and updates regarding the case are expected following Witzenman's arraignment.
