Katy, TX — A tragic wrong-way crash on the I-10 Katy Freeway early Tuesday morning (Oct. 29) left two men dead, including an innocent driver struck head-on while commuting toward downtown Houston, according to the Houston Police Department.
Wrong-Way Car Sparks Deadly Chain Reaction
Authorities say calls began flooding in around 12:05 a.m. reporting a vehicle heading westbound in the eastbound lanes near the 6600 block of I-10, just before the Washington Avenue and Westcott Street exit.
Police identified the vehicle as a BMW four-door sedan traveling the wrong direction. Moments later, it crashed violently into a Tesla Cybertruck, causing the Tesla to ricochet into an 18-wheeler that was also traveling eastbound.
The BMW erupted into flames, forcing the Houston Fire Department to respond and battle the blaze. The driver of the BMW was pronounced dead at the scene, officials confirmed.
Second Driver Dies After Hospitalization
The 66-year-old man behind the wheel of the Cybertruck was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Despite emergency efforts, he was later pronounced dead.
Police reported that the 18-wheeler driver remained on scene, cooperated with investigators, and did not suffer any injuries.
Cause of the Wrong-Way Incident Still Unknown
Authorities are still working to determine why the BMW driver was traveling in the wrong direction. Sgt. Rebecca Dallas said investigators have not yet confirmed whether impairment or a medical emergency may have contributed to the deadly crash.
The horrific collision resulted in lanes being closed for hours as teams worked to extinguish the fire, assess the wreckage, and collect evidence.
Community Reeling as Investigation Continues
Wrong-way crashes remain one of the most catastrophic types of roadway incidents, often resulting in serious injuries or death due to the combined speed and force of impact. Local residents and commuters expressed heartbreak online over yet another preventable tragedy on Houston highways.
Police are urging any witnesses or drivers with dashcam footage from I-10 around midnight to contact investigators to help piece together the events leading up to the collision.
What additional roadway safety measures do you think could help prevent wrong-way crashes on Houston freeways?
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