San Antonio, February 1, 2026
A wrong-way driver was killed in a head-on crash on Interstate 35 in San Antonio early Saturday morning. The incident involved a 62-year-old man whose vehicle was struck while the reckless driver was traveling southbound in the northbound lanes. The wrong-way driver’s vehicle was later struck by an 18-wheeler. The San Antonio Police Department is actively investigating the incident, which raises concerns about traffic safety and wrong-way driving trends in the area.
San Antonio, Texas
Wrong-way driver killed after head-on crash on Interstate 35, SAPD says
Incident Overview
On Saturday, January 31, 2026, at approximately 4:15 a.m., a fatal head-on collision occurred on the northbound lanes of Interstate 35 near George Beach Avenue. A man, estimated to be between 30 and 40 years old, was driving southbound in the northbound lanes when he collided with a vehicle driven by a 62-year-old man. The impact caused the wrong-way driver’s vehicle to become airborne, subsequently striking an 18-wheeler. The driver of the wrong-way vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene, while the older driver sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital. The truck driver escaped unharmed. The San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) is continuing its investigation into this tragic incident.
Traffic Trends on I-35
This incident highlights a concerning trend in traffic safety along I-35. Just months earlier, on July 17, 2025, an alarming multi-vehicle crash near Cassin Road resulted in four fatalities and several injuries. The tragic collision involved a stolen vehicle, a small bus towing a trailer, and an 18-wheeler. The SAPD is actively pursuing those involved in that previous incident as it underscores the ongoing safety challenges in this corridor.
Challenges of Wrong-Way Driving
Wrong-way driving is a significant safety concern on Texas roadways, with 581 deaths reported in head-on crashes across the state in 2014. In response to this persistent issue, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has implemented a range of measures aimed at improving roadway safety. These include installing wrong-way detection and warning systems on high-risk roads, which have the potential to significantly reduce the number of serious accidents.
Considerations Regarding Weather
At the time of the incident, San Antonio was experiencing clear skies and temperatures around 31°F (-0.5°C). Importantly, weather conditions do not appear to have contributed to the crash, reinforcing the need for focused driver awareness and adherence to traffic regulations.
Ongoing Investigations and Community Safety
The SAPD is conducting a careful investigation into the specifics surrounding this wrong-way driving incident. Local authorities emphasize the importance of driver vigilance, compliance with traffic laws, and reporting of any suspicious driving behaviors. These efforts are crucial as the community seeks to reduce the frequency of similar tragedies in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened in the recent wrong-way driving incident on I-35 in San Antonio?
At approximately 4:15 a.m. on Saturday, January 31, 2026, a man driving southbound in the northbound lanes of I-35 near George Beach Avenue collided head-on with another vehicle. His vehicle became airborne and struck an 18-wheeler. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene, and the other driver sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The SAPD is investigating the incident.
Have there been other significant traffic incidents on I-35 in San Antonio recently?
Yes, on July 17, 2025, a multi-vehicle crash near Cassin Road involved a stolen white Chevrolet Camaro, a small bus towing a trailer, and an 18-wheeler. The crash resulted in four fatalities and numerous injuries. The SAPD is actively searching for the individuals involved in the stolen vehicle.
What measures are being taken to address wrong-way driving in Texas?
In 2014, 581 people were killed in head-on crashes on Texas roads. In response, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) implemented measures such as installing wrong-way detection and warning systems on at-risk roads to reduce fatalities and serious injuries.
What were the weather conditions at the time of the incident?
At the time of the incident, San Antonio was experiencing clear skies with temperatures around 31°F (-0.5°C). The weather conditions were not reported as a contributing factor to the crash.
What is being done to improve public safety on the roads?
The SAPD is conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the wrong-way driving incident. Authorities urge drivers to remain vigilant, adhere to traffic laws, and report any suspicious driving behaviors to enhance public safety on the roads.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Northbound lanes of Interstate 35 near George Beach Avenue, San Antonio, Texas |
| Time | Approximately 4:15 a.m. on Saturday, January 31, 2026 |
| Involved Parties | Wrong-way driver (estimated age 30-40), 62-year-old driver, 18-wheeler truck driver |
| Casualties | Wrong-way driver pronounced dead at the scene; 62-year-old driver sustained non-life-threatening injuries |
| Investigation | San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) ongoing investigation into the incident |
| Weather Conditions | Clear skies with temperatures around 31°F (-0.5°C); weather not reported as a contributing factor |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
U.S. 281 Crash Causes Major Traffic Disruptions in San Antonio
San Antonio’s Heartbreak: Fatal Crash on I-37 South
Silver Alert Issued for Missing 73-Year-Old Man in San Antonio
San Antonio Woman in Critical Condition After Wrong-Way Crash
Bicyclist Tragically Killed by Suspected Drunk Driver in San Antonio
San Antonio Actor Addresses Health Concerns Following TV Appearance
Travel Ban Expansion: Implications for U.S. Immigration Policy
Shooting Leaves Man Injured in San Antonio
San Antonio’s River of Lights Festival Brings Holiday Cheer
Pedestrian Seriously Injured in San Antonio Collision
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
