West Des Moines, IA (March 24, 2026) – One person was killed, and two others were injured following a wrong-way crash on Monday afternoon, March 24, on Interstate 35 near the EP True Parkway overpass in West Des Moines.
Authorities said the incident began around 1:17 p.m. when reports came in of a vehicle traveling the wrong direction in the southbound lanes of I-35. Officers responded shortly after and located a crash involving three vehicles.
Emergency crews arrived on scene and provided aid to those involved. Officials later confirmed that one person died as a result of the collision. Two other drivers sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were treated following the crash.
The identities of those involved have not been released pending notification of family members.
Southbound lanes of I-35 were closed for several hours while crews investigated and cleared the scene. All lanes were reopened later in the afternoon.
Authorities continue to investigate the crash, and more details will be released as they become available.
Our sincere condolences go out to the victim’s loved ones.
Why Wrong-Way Driving Incidents Are So Dangerous
Wrong-way crashes often result in severe outcomes due to the high likelihood of head-on collisions. Vehicles traveling in opposite directions can create powerful impacts even at moderate speeds.
These incidents may occur due to driver confusion, missed signage, or impaired driving. Once a vehicle enters the wrong lanes, other drivers may have little time to react.
Investigators typically review roadway conditions, traffic patterns, and driver behavior to determine how the wrong-way entry occurred.
