PEORIA, AZ – A significant portion of Loop 303 is currently shut down following a wrong-way collision that has disrupted traffic across several miles in the Northwest Valley. The incident, which occurred around 1:20 p.m., has led to a complete closure of the northbound lanes, stretching from the Happy Valley exit to the Lone Mountain Parkway off-ramp, affecting commuters north of Surprise and near Peoria.
The Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) reports that the crash involved a blue sedan traveling southbound in the northbound lanes. This vehicle collided with a pickup truck carrying several passengers. Remarkably, those in the truck escaped without major injuries, while the sedan’s driver, an adult male, sustained serious head injuries and was transported to a hospital, where he remains in critical condition.
Aerial footage from the scene shows the aftermath of the crash, with multiple vehicles pulled to the side and a full shutdown of the affected highway section. DPS is actively investigating the cause of the wrong-way driving, which remains unclear at this time.
Authorities are examining the possibility of impairment as a contributing factor, although they have stated that the sedan’s driver is not believed to have been suicidal. As part of the investigation, DPS personnel are documenting the scene extensively, capturing images and videos to piece together the events leading up to the collision.
Efforts to clear the highway are underway, with tow trucks on site to remove the damaged vehicles, including the severely mangled blue sedan. The scene highlights the severity of the crash and the extensive damage involved.
The closure has caused significant delays for drivers in the area, with no clear timeline yet for when the northbound lanes will reopen. Commuters are advised to seek alternative routes and remain updated through local traffic reports.
DPS continues to gather information and evidence as they work to understand the circumstances surrounding the crash. The investigation remains ongoing, and further updates will be provided as new details emerge.