Wrong-way crash on Interstate-17 diverts all area’s southbound traffic
May 27, 2020, 10:03 PM | Updated: May 28, 2020, 5:37 am
(Twitter Photo/Arizona DOT)
(Twitter Photo/Arizona DOT)
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
