ATLANTA — A 20-year-old driver, Addison Thornton, has been charged following a wrong-way crash on Interstate 75/Interstate 85 early Saturday morning. The incident occurred around 3:20 a.m. near the North Avenue exit when a Georgia State Patrol trooper spotted Thornton driving north in the southbound HOV lane.
- 20-year-old driver charged in crash
- Wrong-way driving on Interstate 75/85
- Driver failed DUI test and had fake ID
- Multiple charges including serious injury by vehicle
- Injuries reported; victims taken to hospital
- Traffic report followed during morning commute
Despite attempts to stop her, Thornton collided with a 2018 Buick Encore before being apprehended. She failed a DUI test and was found in possession of a fake driver’s license.
The Georgia State Patrol reported that the collision resulted from Thornton driving against traffic in an HOV lane. After hitting the Buick Encore, both the driver and passenger were transported to Grady Memorial Hospital for treatment of their injuries.
Thornton faces multiple charges including:
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Driving on the wrong side of the roadway
- Possession of a fraudulent driver’s license
- Serious injury by motor vehicle
- Underage consumption
The crash prompted significant traffic delays until all lanes reopened just before 7 a.m., as reported by Triple Team Traffic’s Mike Shields during Channel 2 Action News This Morning coverage.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding impaired driving and its consequences on public safety. Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of responsible behavior behind the wheel, especially among young drivers.
