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Santa Clara, CA (August 27, 2026) – Two men died on Wednesday after a GMC SUV traveling the wrong way struck a Honda pickup truck on Montague Expy.
The collision occurred at the Montague Expy overcrossing at Lafayette St. Police said the GMC was traveling northbound in the wrong direction and above the speed limit, although its exact speed was not known.
Video from witness Chris Traverse’s dashcam showed smoke coming from one vehicle before it caught fire. Emergency units arrived, and crews used rescue equipment to remove a person from the other vehicle.
Montague Expy was closed in both directions after the wreck, and drivers were asked to use alternate routes. Police initially reported one death before later confirming that both drivers had died at the site.
The circumstances surrounding the fatal accident remain under investigation. Our deepest sympathies go to the families and loved ones of the two men.
What Makes Wrong-Way Crashes Especially Dangerous?
Wrong-way driving creates a serious risk because vehicles may approach each other at high speeds with little time to react. These crashes often involve vehicles traveling in opposite directions, which can make the resulting forces severe.
Drivers who encounter a vehicle traveling against traffic should avoid sudden maneuvers and, when possible, move away from the approaching vehicle safely. Maintaining awareness of lane markings and traffic signs can also help prevent accidental entry onto the wrong side of a divided road.
Alcohol, fatigue, distraction, confusion, and unfamiliar roads can contribute to wrong-way driving, although the specific cause varies from case to case. Clear roadway signs, proper lighting, and attentive driving can help reduce the likelihood of these dangerous encounters.
