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Major Traffic Chaos in Atlanta Following Wrong-Way Crash

Traffic jam on Atlanta highway due to accident

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News Summary

Atlanta experienced severe traffic disruptions after a wrong-way crash on the Downtown Connector early in the morning on March 7, 2025. The incident involved at least two vehicles, leading to significant lane closures and rerouting for drivers. Authorities reported that the driver of a black Mercedes-Benz was under the influence, resulting in serious injuries to a 17-year-old passenger. Cleanup efforts were extensive, with crews working for hours to restore normal traffic flow. This accident highlights the dangers of impaired driving.

Major Traffic Chaos in Atlanta Following Wrong-Way Crash

Atlanta faced significant traffic delays in the early morning hours of March 7, 2025, after a remarkable wrong-way crash on the Downtown Connector. The event took place around 3:20 a.m., just near the exit to North Avenue, involving at least two vehicles and leaving a trail of havoc behind.

Details of the Incident

Authorities confirmed that the multi-vehicle accident led to the closure of all southbound lanes of Interstate 75/85 for several hours. Traffic was brought to a standstill between exits 250 and 249D, causing motorists to face drastic rerouting through the entrance ramp from 10th Street. This unplanned detour turned into a nightmare for drivers, resulting in significant gridlock across the area.

Unraveling the Crash

According to reports from the Georgia State Patrol (GSP), a trooper spotted a black 2012 Mercedes-Benz traveling the wrong way in the southbound HOV lane. By the time the law enforcement officer caught up with the vehicle, it had already collided with another car.

After assessing the situation and performing a DUI test on the driver, it was determined that the Mercedes driver was indeed under the influence. The driver, identified as 20-year-old Addison Thornton from O’Fallon, Missouri, faced multiple charges, including:

Driving under the influence
Driving on the wrong side of the roadway
Possession of a fraudulent driver’s license
Serious injury by motor vehicle
Underage consumption

Injuries and Hospitalizations

The incident took a troubling turn when a 17-year-old passenger in the Mercedes from Washington, Missouri, sustained serious injuries and was promptly taken to a hospital for treatment. Meanwhile, the other vehicle involved was a 2018 Buick Encore, driven by a 30-year-old individual from Kennesaw, who also had a 28-year-old passenger on board. Thankfully, both occupants of the Buick were transported to Grady Memorial Hospital with injuries that were deemed non-life-threatening; however, no specific details about their conditions have been disclosed.

Cleanup Efforts

The aftermath of the crash left a significant mess on the roadway. Debris was scattered across the lanes, requiring the dedicated efforts of cleanup crews who worked tirelessly to restore order. Large brushes were employed to clear the scene, which included one car found lying on its side against the median—crushed and mangled. It took a concerted effort to reopen the interstate, which finally happened shortly before 7 a.m. after hours of traffic madness.

Community Impact

This incident serves as a stark reminder for all drivers on the road about the potential dangers of impaired driving and the need for responsible choices. As Atlanta’s roads continue to buzz with activity, the community remains hopeful that such dangerous situations can be avoided in the future.

As always, those who witnessed the crash or were affected by the delays are encouraged to stay safe and vigilant, keeping an eye on local traffic updates and ensuring they make informed decisions behind the wheel.