LOWELL, MASS. (WHDH) - A wrong-way driver hit a car driving on the Lowell Connector early Wednesday, killing the operator of the second vehicle.

Shortly after 1:15 a.m. state police responded to the crash; inbound lanes were closed until 4 a.m.

“The preliminary investigation indicates that a wrong way driver traveling outbound in the inbound lanes caused the crash,” police said in a statement. “First responders transported the operator and passenger of the second vehicle to Lowell General Hospital for a MedFlight to Boston. Unfortunately, the operator succumbed to their injuries.”

The driver of the wrong-way vehicle, Derek Witzenman, 29, of Woburn, was arrested and faces several charges including operating under the influence and negligent operation of a motor vehicle. He was expected to be arraigned in Lowell District Court.

This is a developing news story; stay with 7NEWS on-air and online for the latest details.

(Copyright (c) 2025 Sunbeam Television. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

Join our Newsletter for the latest news right to your inbox