Overview
- The head-on collision occurred shortly after 00:30 between the Wanlo triangle and Erkelenz‑Ost on the A46 toward Heinsberg.
- Both drivers were heavily trapped in their vehicles and were extricated by firefighters using hydraulic rescue equipment.
- The 47-year-old died in hospital a few hours after the crash, while the 33-year-old alleged wrong-way driver remains hospitalized in stable condition.
- Police collected blood samples, secured the suspect’s driving licence and deployed a forensic accident team that worked into the morning to secure evidence.
- The A46 was fully closed for rescue and investigation and reopened in the early afternoon after extensive clearance, causing significant regional traffic disruption.