Howard Co, MD (January 6, 2026) – A devastating wrong-way crash on Interstate 95 left two people dead and two others critically injured on Sunday morning in Howard County. Maryland State Police confirmed that the driver responsible, 34-year-old Michael Coupet of Baltimore City, was under the influence of alcohol when the fatal collision occurred.
The crash took place on January 5 when Coupet, driving a Toyota Sequoia, traveled the wrong way on I-95 and struck a Chrysler Pacifica head-on. The impact was severe, resulting in the immediate death of the Pacifica’s driver, 48-year-old Venkata Asha Khanna Appana, who was pronounced dead at the scene. The front-seat passenger, 49-year-old Krishna Kishore Koti Kalapudi, was transported to a local hospital but later died from his injuries.
Two additional passengers in the Pacifica, a 21-year-old and a 16-year-old, were airlifted to a nearby trauma center by Maryland State Police Aviation Command with life-threatening injuries. Their current conditions have not been released.
Authorities confirmed that Coupet was under the influence at the time of the crash. He has been charged with four counts of vehicular manslaughter, four counts of homicide by motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and while impaired by alcohol, life-threatening injury by motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, life-threatening injury by motor vehicle while impaired, life-threatening injury involving a motor vehicle, driving under the influence, and driving while impaired. He is currently being held without bond at the Howard County Detention Center.
Lanes on I-95 remained closed for over two hours as crash investigators examined the scene. Personnel from the Maryland Department of Transportation, State Highway Administration, assisted with traffic management and roadway cleanup. The Maryland State Police Crash Team continues to lead the active investigation.
We send our best wishes to those injured in this crash and hope for a swift recovery.
Wrong-Way Crashes and DUI Tragedies in Maryland
The fatal crash that occurred on January 5 in Howard County highlights the devastating impact of impaired driving and wrong-way incidents on Maryland highways. Wrong-way collisions are among the deadliest types of crashes due to their violent, head-on nature, especially when they occur at high interstate speeds.
When impairment is involved, drivers pose an extreme risk to themselves and others. In this tragic case, two lives were lost, two more remain hospitalized, and a community is left to grapple with the consequences of a preventable decision. Families affected by DUI-related fatalities face not only emotional trauma but also the legal and medical aftermath that can stretch on for years.
Beyond the initial collision, the consequences for victims and their loved ones can include hospitalizations, long-term rehabilitation, funeral costs, and complex legal proceedings. It’s a stark reminder of how critical it is to prevent impaired driving through education, accountability, and responsible choices.
At Local Accident Reports, we are committed to covering tragic incidents like this with accuracy and compassion, while helping families find the support they need.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a serious DUI crash, Local Accident Reports can guide you toward the resources and help you need to begin your recovery process. Contact us today for compassionate support and actionable information.
