Traffic
Massachusetts I-395 Wrong-Way Driver Stopped by State Trooper
Oxford, MA – A Massachusetts State Police trooper narrowly avoided a head on collision while&n…
By Claire Benton · 2026-11-03T01:26:57.946Z
Oxford, MA – A Massachusetts State Police trooper narrowly avoided a head on collision while stopping an allegedly impaired wrong way driver on Interstate 395 early Sunday, Nov. 1, potentially preventing a serious crash involving other motorists.
According to Massachusetts State Police, troopers from the Sturbridge Barracks responded around 12:45 a.m. to multiple 911 calls reporting a pickup truck traveling in the wrong direction on I 395 in Oxford, Worcester County, southwest of Boston.
Investigators said the pickup had allegedly struck two vehicles in a fast food restaurant parking lot before entering the highway at Exit 7, traveling north in the southbound lanes.
Trooper Places Cruiser Between Driver and Traffic
Minutes later, a responding trooper traveling southbound near Auburn activated his emergency lights and began slowing vehicles behind him to protect approaching motorists.
With traffic held back, the trooper activated his siren as the wrong way pickup approached.
Police said the trooper narrowly avoided a head on collision before successfully bringing the pickup to a stop. His cruiser sustained minor damage, but neither the trooper nor the pickup driver was injured.
Worcester Man Arrested on OUI Charges
Authorities identified the driver as Daniel Macko, 30, of Worcester.
Macko was arrested and charged with operating under the influence of liquor and negligent operation of a motor vehicle.
Massachusetts State Police Col. Geoffrey Noble praised the trooper's quick response and willingness to put himself in danger to protect other drivers.
"If it weren’t for this Trooper’s courage we may have had a tragic outcome," Noble said.
The incident underscores the dangers of wrong way driving, particularly during overnight hours when impaired motorists can pose serious risks to highway traffic.
Police did not identify the trooper involved or provide additional information about the earlier parking lot collisions.