St. Louis, MO (July 28, 2026) – A wrong-way crash on Interstate 64 left two people dead and another person critically injured late on Sunday night in St. Louis. The accident happened shortly before 11:45 p.m. near Jefferson Ave.
Police said a Mazda CX entered the westbound lanes of I-64 while traveling eastbound. The Mazda then struck a Ford Explorer, and both vehicles caught fire.
The drivers of both vehicles, who were male, were pronounced dead at the scene. A 23-year-old male passenger in the Mazda was taken to a hospital with critical and unstable injuries. The identities of those involved have not been released. The investigation into the cause of the wreck remains active.
Our condolences go out to the families and loved ones of those who died.
Why Wrong-Way Highway Crashes Are So Dangerous
Wrong-way highway crashes are among the most severe types of roadway accidents because vehicles can approach each other at high speeds from opposite directions. These crashes often leave drivers with little time to react before a collision occurs.
Factors such as impaired driving, confusion at highway entrances, distractions, or roadway design can contribute to wrong-way travel. Safety measures such as clear signs, alert driving, and avoiding impaired operation can help lower risks. Drivers who notice a vehicle traveling in the wrong direction should create distance when possible and avoid sudden actions that could place them in greater danger.
