Man Killed, Family Injured by Wrong-Way Driver Crash

Two people were killed, including a wrong-way driver, and three critically injured in a three-vehicle accident on Interstate 17 north of Phoenix, Arizona Monday.

The wrong-way driver was traveling southbound in the northbound lanes in a silver Pontiac when the accident occurred at about 9:30 p.m. Monday near the Carefree Highway exit, according to DPS Lt. Jim Warriner.

The wrong-way driver collided with three other vehicles, including a SUV carrying a family of four. The male driver of the SUV was taken to a Valley hospital where he was pronounced dead. Three other occupants, including two young girls, suffered critical injuries and were airlifted to area hospitals.

About four other passengers in the two other vehicles suffered non life-threatening injuries.

It is unknown why the driver was traveling in the wrong direction. An autopsy will be performed.