Woman dead after car bursts into flames after going the wrong way on I-75

Reporter: Amy Galo Writer: Nicholas Karsen
Published: Updated:
crash
Credit: The Florida Department of Transportation

A woman has died following an early morning fiery wrong-way crash on Interstate 75, south of SR-82 in Lee County.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the 21-year-old woman driving a Kia Soul was going the wrong way in the southbound lanes, north of Colonial Boulevard, at approximately 1:35 a.m. Thursday.

The vehicle then struck a Nissan Rogue traveling southbound in the left lane of traffic, causing the Kia to ignite in flames, FHP reported.

The Nissan pulled over to the side of the road to wait for authorities.

A 59-year-old man and woman in the second car are now in the hospital with serious injuries.

FHP reported the driver of the Kia Soul died on the scene.

FHP suspects the woman got onto the off-ramp at Colonial Blvd, an area under construction, which drivers think led to the deadly mistake.

This tragic wrong-way crash left drivers concerned but not surprised.

“They should put a sign up that’s a bit more eye-catching,” said Jorge, a driver. “It needs to stand out a bit more because there are too many obstacles due to the construction that distract you, and then before you know it, you’re at the entrance or exit.”

More obvious signs are in the works for Lee County. A wrong-way driver alert system would detect if someone is getting on the interstate in the wrong direction, but this exit is not on the list of those set to receive it. After this crash, drivers certainly think it should.

“Getting onto I-75 or off 75 is very difficult because of all the changes that never end and you can’t make out, and there’s too much traffic,” said Bryan, a driver.

The wrong-way alert system would trigger flashing lights to get the driver’s attention. It is planned for Bayshore Road, Daniels Parkway., Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, Luckett Road, and the airport. It should be up and running early next year.

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