Wendy Lara, Manchester Woman, Killed in Wrong-Way Crash on Route 5/15 in Wethersfield

A 30-year-old Manchester woman, identified as Wendy Lara, was killed late Saturday night in a wrong-way crash on Route 5/15 South in Wethersfield, according to Connecticut State Police.

State police said Lara, who lived on Knighton Street, was driving a 2017 Toyota Camry northbound in the southbound lanes when her vehicle collided head-on with a 2025 Honda Prologue Touring SUV at approximately 11:56 p.m. The crash occurred about 300 feet north of Exit 85, according to an accident report released Sunday.

The SUV was being driven by a 46-year-old woman from Rocky Hill, with a 48-year-old Rocky Hill man as a passenger. Police said the SUV sustained disabling damage in the collision.

Both occupants of the SUV suffered suspected minor injuries and were transported by ambulance to Hartford Hospital. Lara was also taken to the hospital with life-threatening injuries but was later pronounced dead.

Investigation Ongoing

The crash remains under investigation by Connecticut State Police Troop H in Hartford. Authorities have not yet determined why Lara was traveling the wrong way, and no charges have been announced.

State police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has additional information to contact Troop H at 860-534-1000.