CHATTANOOGA, Hamilton County, Tenn., Oct. 26, 2026 — A 46-year-old driver died after a wrong-way crash on Hwy 27 early Sunday morning, October 25, according to the Chattanooga Police Department. The head-on collision happened on the northbound lanes around 2 a.m.
Officers said they were called to a half-mile stretch of northbound Hwy 27 after a report of a multi-vehicle crash. A preliminary investigation indicates a driver in a Mazda CX-5 entered the highway going the wrong way and struck a Mercedes CLS 550 head on.
Paramedics took both drivers to a hospital with serious injuries. The driver of the Mercedes later died from those injuries.
The crash remains under review. Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the person who died, and we wish the injured driver a full recovery.
More on Crashes in Chattanooga, TN
This crash happened on Hwy 27 in Chattanooga, TN. We cover crashes across Hamilton County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Hamilton County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time of day do wrong-way crashes happen most often?
They cluster in the overnight and early morning hours, often between midnight and sunrise, when traffic is light and wrong-way entries are less likely to be noticed quickly.
What can drivers do to avoid a wrong-way collision?
Stay alert for headlights approaching in the wrong lane, especially on divided highways at night, and keep to the right lane when possible so there's more room to react.
What should someone do if they spot a car going the wrong way?
Slow down, move to the right, and call 911 with your location and direction of travel so officers can respond and warn other drivers.
How do highway agencies try to stop wrong-way entries?
Many use lowered wrong-way signs, reflective pavement markers, and sensors at off-ramps designed to alert both the driver and highway officials when a vehicle enters against traffic.
What to Do After a Wrong-Way Crash in Chattanooga, TN
If you're involved in or witness a wrong-way crash, call 911 immediately and stay in a safe location away from traffic if possible. Even if injuries seem minor at first, get checked by a medical professional, since impact injuries from a head-on collision aren't always obvious right away. Keep a record of what you saw or experienced while it's fresh, and follow up with the Chattanooga Police Department if they're gathering information from witnesses. Give yourself time to process the shock of a serious crash, and lean on family, friends, or a counselor if you need support in the days after.
