Wrong-way crash on Interstate-17 diverts all area’s southbound traffic

PHOENIX — A wrong-way collision on Interstate 17 near McDowell Road forced all nearby traffic to exit at Thomas Road on Wednesday night, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.

Around 7:41 p.m., law enforcement first responded to calls of a serious crash near Thomas Road, the Arizona Department of Public Safety told KTAR News 92.3 FM in an email.

The road was closed until around 12:45 a.m.

A 45-year-old male was reported to be driving a Suzuki hatchback northbound in the southbound lanes, when he collided with a Ford truck with two occupants, according to authorities.

FYI – Traffic is backing up on I-17 SB due to a crash near Thomas Road. We recommend taking alternates such as State Route 51; if you're on I-17 SB, you'll need to exit at Thomas Road.#phxtraffic #i17 pic.twitter.com/1C2CtrqebP

— Arizona DOT (@ArizonaDOT) May 28, 2020

The wrong-way driver was reported to have sustained serious injuries while those in the truck are said to have been transported to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Impairment is being investigated as a factor in the crash.

There is no estimated time to reopen southbound I-17 (closed at Thomas Road due to a crash). All southbound traffic on I-17 MUST exit at Thomas Road; the Indian School Road on-ramp is also closed. Alternatives include State Route 51.#phxtraffic #i17 pic.twitter.com/ZUSoBfrHgA

— Arizona DOT (@ArizonaDOT) May 28, 2020

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