On Friday, 11/15/24 at approximately 12:04 AM, Troop L- Litchfield received numerous 911 calls reporting a wrong way driver traveling southbound in the northbound lanes of Route 8 near exit 42. As Troopers were responding to the area, 911 calls continued and Troop L continued to provide updates. A responding Trooper traveling north on Route 8 observed the wrong way driver approaching their location just south of exit 44.
The Trooper observed that the wrong way driver was traveling in the left lane, and in response the Trooper activated their emergency lights and siren and slowed, signaling the wrong way driver to stop. The wrong way driver reduced speed, but did not stop. The wrong way driver attempted to maneuver around the Trooper's cruiser and caused a front left side, angled head-on collision. No injuries were reported, however the wrong way operator was transported to an area hospital for an evaluation. The wrong way driver was issued an infraction for violation CGS 14-237; Driving the Wrong Way on a Divided Highway. Please see the attached accident information summary & in-car camera footage.