LOWELL, Mass. — A tragic wrong-way crash on the Lowell Connector early Wednesday morning left one person dead and another facing serious criminal charges. Massachusetts State Police say the collision happened shortly after 1:15 a.m. near Exit 5A, forcing the closure of all inbound lanes for several hours as investigators worked at the scene. Traffic was finally reopened around 4 a.m.
According to the preliminary investigation, a driver traveling in the wrong direction — outbound in the inbound lanes — caused the deadly crash. Police identified the wrong-way driver as 29-year-old Derek Witzenman of Woburn, who was arrested at the scene. Authorities say Witzenman will face multiple charges, including operating under the influence of liquor and negligent operation of a motor vehicle.
Emergency crews rushed to the scene within minutes of the 911 call. The impact of the crash left both vehicles heavily damaged. First responders transported Witzenman and two people from the other vehicle to Lowell General Hospital, where they were stabilized for a MedFlight transfer to Boston due to the seriousness of their injuries. Tragically, the driver of the second vehicle died shortly after arriving at the hospital. Their name has not been released pending notification of their family.
Police say it appears Witzenman entered the connector in the wrong direction, though it is still unclear exactly where he entered or how long he was driving against traffic before the crash. Investigators suspect that alcohol was a contributing factor. The Massachusetts State Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Section is continuing to piece together the circumstances that led to the fatal collision.
The tragedy has shaken the Lowell community, where residents and commuters often describe the connector as a dangerous stretch of highway, especially during overnight hours. Authorities are urging drivers to stay alert, avoid distractions, and never get behind the wheel after drinking. “This is a heartbreaking reminder that one wrong decision can end a life,” a state police spokesperson said.
Witzenman is expected to be arraigned in Lowell District Court on Wednesday, where prosecutors are likely to seek strict conditions for his release. The investigation remains active as state police gather evidence and await toxicology results.
