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TEMPE, Maricopa County, Ariz., Nov. 8, 2026 — Two drivers died early Sunday morning, November 8, in a wrong-way crash on eastbound Loop 202 in Tempe. Both were killed in a two-vehicle collision near Scottsdale Road, according to the Arizona Department of Public Safety.
The crash was reported shortly after 12:30 a.m. near the Scottsdale Road interchange. One vehicle had reportedly been traveling the wrong way on the eastbound freeway before the collision.
Troopers who responded found both drivers dead at the scene. Each was reportedly the only occupant of their vehicle.
Eastbound Loop 202 was shut down for several hours near Scottsdale Road while troopers worked the scene.
The Arizona Department of Public Safety said the cause remains under investigation. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those who died.
Local Crash Information for Tempe, AZ
The fatal crash was reported on Scottsdale Road in Tempe. For more crash news from the area, see our latest Maricopa County crash news.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does alcohol play a role in wrong-way crashes?
Impairment is a common factor in wrong-way crashes nationally, though whether it contributed in this case has not been confirmed. Investigators typically review toxicology results as part of a full crash investigation.
What causes a driver to enter a freeway going the wrong way?
Wrong-way entries usually happen when a driver mistakenly turns onto an exit ramp instead of an on-ramp, frequently at night or in unfamiliar areas. Impairment, confusion and poor visibility are frequently cited contributing factors in these cases.
Why are wrong-way crashes usually fatal?
Because both vehicles are typically moving toward each other at highway speed, the combined impact speed is much higher than in a same-direction collision, which raises the chance of serious or fatal injury to occupants.
Are certain roads more prone to wrong-way crashes?
Divided freeways with closely spaced ramps or limited lighting can see more wrong-way entries than other roads, though any freeway can be affected depending on conditions and driver behavior.
