Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Wrong‑Way Driver Identified After Multi‑Vehicle Crashes Shut I‑290 in Northborough

State police are investigating potential failures in emergency access that could speed statewide installation of thermal wrong‑way detectors.

Overview

  • The crash, which happened Tuesday night near mile marker 29 on I‑290 west, began when a wrong‑way driver struck multiple vehicles and a tractor‑trailer.
  • Northborough officials said four cars and the tractor‑trailer sustained moderate to severe damage and the wrong‑way driver left the scene and was later identified.
  • Reports differ on injuries but local officials said three people were taken to a nearby hospital with injuries not considered life‑threatening while one outlet reported a single injured person.
  • Traffic congestion after the collisions forced emergency crews to park up the highway and walk to the scene, delaying vehicle access and prompting local review of response procedures.
  • The Massachusetts State Police opened an active investigation and state transportation officials are accelerating plans to add thermal detection cameras and improved wrong‑way signage at high‑risk ramps.