Concord, NC (March 6, 2026) – Two people lost their lives following a wrong-way crash early on Friday morning, March 6, along Interstate 85 South near mile marker 49, close to the Concord airport area.
The accident occurred just after 5 a.m. Reports show that a blue 2017 Ford Focus entered the interstate traveling in the wrong direction from Exit 49 at Brunton Smith Blvd.
Authorities say the Ford was driven by 25-year-old Ryan Stamper. The car collided head-on with a red 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe in the far left lane of the highway.
The Hyundai was driven by 54-year-old Robert Muellemann. Both drivers were pronounced dead at the scene.
Officials said the initial crash triggered three additional accidents in the same area. Emergency units responded quickly and assisted those involved.
Two other people were taken to a nearby hospital with minor injuries following the secondary crashes. Their identities have not been released.
The southbound lanes of Interstate 85 were shut down for several hours near Exit 52 at Poplar Tent Road while crews cleared the scene. One lane remained closed into the evening as traffic slowly resumed.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available. We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased.
Why Wrong-Way Crashes on Highways Are So Dangerous
Wrong-way crashes on highways often lead to severe outcomes because vehicles are traveling at high speeds in opposite directions. When a car enters a highway ramp incorrectly, drivers in the proper lanes may have very little time to react.
Head-on collisions are among the most dangerous types of crashes. The combined force of two vehicles moving toward each other greatly increases the impact during a collision.
These incidents sometimes occur when drivers enter an exit ramp instead of an entrance ramp. Poor visibility, unfamiliar roads, and driver confusion can also contribute to these situations.
Highway safety efforts often focus on improved signage, lighting, and warning systems near ramps. Some locations also use sensors or flashing alerts that activate when a vehicle enters a ramp the wrong way, helping warn drivers before a serious crash occurs.
