A fatal wrong-way collision occurred late Saturday night, December 13, 2025, on Route 5/15 in Wethersfield, Connecticut, claiming the life of 30-year-old Wendy Lara from Manchester. Lara was driving a 2017 Toyota Camry northbound in the southbound lanes near Exit 85. The crash happened around 11:56 p.m., disrupting traffic on the busy highway.
The Toyota collided head-on with a 2025 Honda Prologue Tour SUV traveling southbound, operated by a 46-year-old woman from Rocky Hill with a 48-year-old male passenger also from Rocky Hill. Both vehicles sustained major damage in the impact. Emergency responders arrived quickly to the scene north of Exit 85.
Wendy Lara suffered life-threatening injuries and was transported to Hartford Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead. The driver and passenger in the Honda sustained suspected minor injuries. They were also taken to the hospital for treatment and evaluation.
Connecticut State Police are actively investigating the circumstances leading to the wrong-way driving. No details on potential causes, such as impairment or distraction, have been released at this time. Authorities urge witnesses to contact Troop H at 860-534-1000 with any information.
Wendy Lara resided on Knighton Street in Manchester, Connecticut. Verified public records confirm her age as 30 and her connection to the Manchester area. No additional details on her education, profession, family life, lifestyle, or hobbies are available from official sources.
The incident adds to concerns over wrong-way crashes in Connecticut, though this case remains under review. Route 5/15, also known as the Berlin Turnpike in sections, was temporarily affected, but normal traffic resumed following the investigation.