Fatal Wrong-Way Crash I-40 Asheville

Asheville -- September 10, 2024: A fatal wrong-way crash on Interstate 40 in Asheville has claimed the life of 21-year-old

Caleb Henshaw, a resident of Durham, North Carolina. The incident occurred late Sunday night near mile marker 41, when Eden Russo, a driver from Asheville, was traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes of I-40. Russo's Jeep collided head-on with four other vehicles, including Henshaw's, resulting in a multi-vehicle accident that caused Henshaw’s death at the scene.

The crash took place around 9 p.m. when Russo's vehicle entered the interstate from the wrong direction. According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol (NCSHP), the accident led to a significant disruption on the highway. A section of I-40 was closed for several hours as emergency responders and investigators worked to clear the wreckage and assess the scene. The closure caused major delays for late-night travelers, and detours were set up to manage the diverted traffic flow.

Multiple emergency units responded to the scene, and several injured individuals were transported to local hospitals for treatment. The driver of a commercial freightliner truck involved in the crash was unharmed, but other passengers sustained various injuries, ranging from minor to severe.

Ongoing Investigation

The NCSHP has launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the factors that led to the wrong-way driving incident. Authorities are considering various possibilities, including whether alcohol, drugs, or distracted driving played a role. The investigation will also examine any mechanical issues that may have caused Russo’s vehicle to enter the wrong lane. Witnesses are being interviewed, and traffic camera footage is being reviewed to piece together the events leading up to the collision.

Editor's Note:* A criminal charge is an accusation, by law, a person accused of a crime is innocent until proven in a court of law.