A devastating early morning crash on Interstate 95 in Howard County, Maryland, resulted in the deaths of two people and left two others critically injured, according to Maryland State Police. The collision occurred in the early hours of Sunday, January 4, at approximately 2:45 a.m., when state troopers were dispatched following reports of a serious two-vehicle accident.
Authorities stated that the crash involved a Chrysler Pacifica and a Toyota Sequoia. At the time of the incident, four individuals were traveling in the Chrysler. Emergency crews arriving at the scene found extensive damage to both vehicles, indicating a violent head-on impact. The driver of the Chrysler Pacifica suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene by first responders.
The front-seat passenger of the Chrysler was transported to a nearby hospital for emergency medical treatment. Despite efforts by medical personnel, that individual later died as a result of injuries sustained in the crash, bringing the total number of fatalities to two. The remaining two passengers in the Chrysler also sustained serious injuries and required immediate transport to trauma centers for advanced care. Police reported that one of the injured passengers, a 21-year-old, was taken by ambulance, while a 16-year-old was airlifted by helicopter to a trauma facility. As of the latest update, officials had not released information regarding their current medical conditions.
The driver of the Toyota Sequoia was not injured in the collision and did not require hospitalization, according to state police. Investigators noted that the driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with authorities.
Preliminary findings from the Maryland State Police investigation indicate that the Toyota was traveling in the wrong direction on Interstate 95 when it collided head-on with the Chrysler Pacifica. Officials stated that impairment is believed to have been a contributing factor in the crash, although the investigation is ongoing and no final conclusions have been announced.
Maryland State Police continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident, including vehicle speed, driver behavior, and possible impairment. Authorities confirmed that charges may be filed once the investigation is complete. The tragic collision underscores the severe dangers associated with wrong-way driving, particularly during late-night and early morning hours, when impaired driving is more likely to occur and reaction times may be reduced.
