MANVEL, TX – A tragic wrong-way crash on State Highway 288 early Sunday morning claimed the lives of two people, authorities confirmed. The deadly accident occurred around 2:30 a.m. near Croix Road, prompting an immediate response from law enforcement and emergency personnel.
Upon arrival, officers found a Tesla Model S fully engulfed in flames. Despite firefighters’ efforts to extinguish the fire, both occupants inside the vehicle were pronounced dead at the scene. The victims have been identified as 45-year-old Alexander Conwell of Houston and 36-year-old Janica Oliphint of Pearland.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the Tesla was traveling south in the northbound lanes before crashing into a concrete barrier. The impact of the collision likely contributed to the intense fire that consumed the vehicle.
Authorities believe speed was a significant factor in the crash, but the circumstances leading up to the wrong-way driving incident remain unclear. Investigators are working to determine whether impairment, distraction, or other factors played a role. Toxicology results are pending.
Wrong-way crashes are among the deadliest types of highway accidents, often resulting in catastrophic outcomes due to high-speed impacts. Investigators are reviewing road conditions, vehicle data, and possible driver impairment to understand the full scope of the tragedy.
Police urge drivers to remain alert, follow traffic signs, and avoid reckless driving behaviors that could lead to similar incidents. The loss of Conwell and Oliphint serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of wrong-way driving and high-speed collisions.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities will release further details as they become available. Anyone with information about the crash is encouraged to contact the Manvel Police Department.
