Authorities in Athens are investigating a deadly wrong-way crash that occurred just after midnight early Sunday and involved multiple vehicles. The collision resulted in the deaths of two drivers and left two passengers hospitalized with serious injuries, according to local police.
Law enforcement officials said officers were first alerted to a vehicle traveling in the wrong direction on a major roadway within the city. Shortly afterward, emergency calls reported a serious multi-vehicle crash in the same general area. Responding officers arrived to find several vehicles damaged as a result of a chain-reaction collision.
Investigators determined that a compact SUV had entered the roadway traveling against the flow of traffic. As it continued in the wrong direction, the vehicle collided with more than one car traveling lawfully. Police said the initial impact involved a luxury sedan, followed by a collision with a large sport utility vehicle. After those impacts, the wrong-way vehicle continued forward and struck another sedan head-on, bringing it to a stop near a roadway barrier.
Following the final collision, the wrong-way vehicle became disabled and was engulfed in flames. Emergency crews quickly responded to extinguish the fire and assist victims. Despite those efforts, the driver of the wrong-way vehicle suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. A passenger riding in that vehicle was transported to a hospital in critical condition.
The driver of the vehicle struck head-on also sustained fatal injuries and later died as a result of the crash. A passenger in that vehicle was taken to the hospital and was listed in critical condition. Police said both individuals were adults, though additional personal details were not released.
Authorities reported that occupants of the other vehicles involved in the crash were treated for injuries that were not considered life-threatening. Those individuals were evaluated by medical personnel and transported for further care as a precaution.
Police secured the scene for several hours while investigators documented evidence, examined vehicle damage, and reconstructed the sequence of events. Traffic in the area was significantly impacted as emergency crews worked to clear debris and ensure the roadway was safe to reopen.
The Athens-Clarke County Police Department is leading the investigation and continues to examine what caused the wrong-way driver to enter the roadway. Investigators are reviewing possible contributing factors, including impairment, speed, and driver awareness. Officials emphasized that wrong-way crashes are among the most dangerous types of traffic incidents due to the high likelihood of head-on impacts.
Authorities noted that determining the full circumstances of a multi-vehicle crash can take time, particularly when it involves fatalities and serious injuries. No additional information has been released regarding potential charges as the investigation remains active.
Police also shared that this incident adds to a growing number of fatal traffic crashes recorded in the county this year. Officials expressed concern about roadway safety and reiterated the importance of responsible driving, especially during late-night hours when visibility may be reduced and driver fatigue or impairment can play a role.
