Three Hurt After Wrong-Way Crash on 73 Freeway in Newport Beach

Three people were injured when a driver traveling the wrong way on the 73 Freeway collided head-on with another vehicle in Newport Beach late Saturday night. Emergency crews responded to the scene, where all occupants were assessed and transported to local hospitals with injuries that ranged from moderate to serious.

Police say the wrong-way driver entered the southbound lanes and traveled several miles before the crash occurred near the Newport Coast Drive off-ramp, prompting closures and traffic delays as first responders worked to secure the area. Investigators are looking into potential factors such as impairment, disorientation, or navigation error but have not yet released a cause for the wrong-way entry.

The crash serves as a reminder for Orange County drivers to remain alert — especially on high-speed freeways where wrong-way incidents can escalate quickly. Authorities continue to urge motorists to use caution, report any erratic drivers immediately, and always plan routes ahead to reduce confusion.

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