Polk Co, IA (January 23, 2026) – A wrong-way crash on NW 2nd Avenue on Thursday evening resulted in injuries and temporary road closures as deputies from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office investigated the scene.
The incident occurred around 5:20 p.m. in the 5800 block of NW 2nd Avenue. According to initial reports, a vehicle traveling southbound in the northbound lanes collided head-on with an oncoming vehicle. Emergency responders were dispatched quickly to the scene, where they found multiple vehicles involved.
The wrong-way driver sustained minor injuries and was transported by ambulance to a local hospital for evaluation. Other individuals involved declined medical transport after being assessed on-site.
As a result of the crash, the northbound lanes of NW 2nd Avenue were shut down between NE 54th Avenue and NE 60th Avenue while authorities conducted a detailed crash investigation. The roadway was later reopened after the scene was cleared.
The circumstances behind the wrong-way travel are still being reviewed. We extend our best wishes for a swift recovery to the injured driver and commend the efforts of first responders for their quick action.