Wrong-Way Driver Crash on Interstate 8, College Avenue, San Diego
Two Injured in Wrong-Way Driver in Del Cerro Area
SAN DIEGO, Calif. (July 2, 2026) — A suspected wrong-way driver fleeing from police collided head-on with another vehicle Wednesday morning on Interstate 8 in the Del Cerro area of San Diego, leaving both drivers with serious injuries, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Authorities said the incident began shortly before 10:40 a.m. on July 1st when officers with the San Diego Police Department attempted to stop a Mercedes. Instead of pulling over, the driver accelerated away and traveled toward Interstate 8 via Mission Gorge Road.
CHP officials said the Mercedes entered the westbound side of Interstate 8 while traveling in the eastbound direction. Dispatch records indicate the vehicle reached speeds approaching 100 mph before the crash.
At approximately 10:45 a.m., the Mercedes slammed head-on into a Honda Odyssey that was entering westbound Interstate 8 from the College Avenue on-ramp.
The driver of the Honda suffered major injuries and was transported to a local hospital. Authorities have not released an update on the victim’s condition.
The Mercedes driver allegedly attempted to flee on foot even though he was also seriously hurt. The driver was eventually caught and taken to a hospital before being placed under arrest by San Diego police.
The collision prompted a SigAlert, forcing the closure of the westbound College Avenue on-ramp to Interstate 8 for several hours while investigators examined the scene and crews removed the wreckage. Traffic restrictions were lifted shortly after 1 p.m.
The cause of the collision remains under investigation, and authorities have not released the identity of either driver.
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When it matters most, trust Attorney James Johnson at Johnson Attorneys Group. We are a personal injury law firm serving clients who have been injured throughout California due to negligent motorists. If you were hurt in this collision, call 1-(800) 208-3538. We will request the police report, and the attorney will discuss your options. You are under no obligation to hire us, and there is no cost unless we win your case. Our personal injury law firm is a proud, longtime supporter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).
