UPDATE: A tragic wrong-way crash on the Lowell Connector in Lowell, Massachusetts, has resulted in one fatality and led to multiple charges against the driver. The incident occurred shortly after 1:15 AM on Wednesday, July 5, 2023, when Derek Witzenman, 29, of Woburn, was driving outbound in the inbound lanes near Exit 5A.
Authorities report that Witzenman’s vehicle collided with another car, causing severe injuries to both the driver and passenger of that vehicle. First responders rushed them to Lowell General Hospital, and they were subsequently airlifted to a Boston-area hospital for urgent medical care. Unfortunately, the driver succumbed to their injuries, and their identity has not yet been disclosed pending family notification.
The State Police expressed their condolences, stating, “The State Police offers our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the victim.” Witzenman was arrested at the scene and faces several charges, including operating under the influence and negligent operation of a motor vehicle. He is set to be arraigned in Lowell District Court later today.
The investigation into the crash is ongoing, led by the Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Section, the Crime Scene Services Section, and the Middlesex State Police Detective Unit. All inbound travel lanes near Exit 5A were closed until 4:00 AM as authorities processed the scene.
This developing story highlights the urgent need for road safety and the devastating impacts of impaired driving. Stay tuned for further updates as this situation unfolds. Follow Aaron Curtis for live updates on X @aselahcurtis, or on Bluesky @aaronscurtis.bsky.social.
