Joliet, IL (May 26, 2026) – Two drivers were critically injured following a wrong-way collision involving a sedan and an SUV on West Jefferson Street in Joliet on Monday night, May 25. Police said the crash happened on the roadway near the Jefferson Street Bridge shortly after 9:30 p.m. on Memorial Day.
Reports said a gray Honda coupe was traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes and continued over the bridge despite attempts by a patrol officer to stop it using lights and sirens. The vehicle continued through multiple blocks before striking a black Chevrolet Equinox SUV.
Both drivers were given first aid at the site of the crash before being taken to Saint Joseph Medical Center. Police said the driver of the Honda was later awaiting air transport to another hospital. Both individuals were listed in critical but stable condition.
Jefferson Street was closed for several hours between Wilcox Street and Nicholson Street while emergency units worked in the area and investigators reconstructed the sequence of events. We extend our thoughts to both drivers and their families during this difficult time.
Why Wrong-Way Crashes Often Lead to Severe Injuries
Wrong-way crashes are particularly dangerous because they usually involve direct head-on or near head-on impacts, often at high speeds. These types of collisions can leave drivers with little time to react, especially on divided or multi-lane roads.
Nighttime driving and busy intersections or bridges can increase the risk if a driver becomes disoriented or enters the roadway in the wrong direction. Law enforcement investigations typically review traffic camera footage, witness statements, and vehicle positions to determine how the wrong-way travel began and why it continued despite attempts to stop it.
