Wrong-way crash on U.S. 1 kills driver, injures four including children

A wrong-way driver is dead and four people — including a 4-year-old and a 6-year-old — are hospitalized after a fiery three-vehicle crash on U.S. 1, according to the Martin County Sheriff's Office. During a Sunday news conference, Sheriff John Budensiek said the agency received calls from the Jupiter Police Department about a wrong-way driver traveling on U.S. 1. Shortly after the initial call, deputies learned the driver had crashed and been ejected into a wooded area. Authorities said the driver died as Martin County Fire Rescue crews arrived at the scene. The incident began more than 16 miles from the crash site near Broadway Street and U.S. 1 in Riviera Beach. Budensiek said U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents were driving southbound on U.S. 1 when they spotted the wrong-way driver traveling at a high rate of speed. According to Budensiek, agents made a U-turn in an attempt to stop the vehicle, but the driver continued northbound, prompting Border Patrol to notify other agencies. See also: 'He listened': Hobe Sound youth group gathers to honor teen who died on graduation day Multiple agencies were involved in the effort to stop the wrong-way driver, including the Juno Beach Police Department, Jupiter Police Department, the Martin County Sheriff’s Office and the Florida Highway Patrol. As the suspect continued traveling the wrong way on U.S. 1, Jupiter Police deployed stop sticks in an attempt to stop the vehicle. Budensiek said officers were able to deflate one tire, but the driver continued northbound and nearly struck an officer before entering Martin County. Budensiek said after crossing into Martin County, the wrong-way driver struck two vehicles head-on before veering off the road and crashing into a tree in a fiery wreck. Authorities said the suspect has not been identified, and the vehicle was registered to a woman in South Florida. Video and photos from the scene show debris scattered across U.S. 1. A white vehicle driven by the wrong-way driver was heavily damaged and charred from the fire. A car battery was also ejected from the vehicle. Budensiek said the 6-year-old was lethargic and flown to St. Mary’s Hospital, while the 4-year-old was transported by ground along with two adults.