CHESAPEAKE, Va. — A fiery wrong-way crash on Interstate 464 early Sunday morning claimed two lives and left a third person in critical condition, according to Virginia State Police.
The collision happened at approximately 2:33 a.m. in the southbound lanes of I-464 near Exit 2/Military Highway. Investigators said a 2022 Lexus sedan was traveling north in the southbound lanes when it struck a 2024 Ford Econoline ambulance head-on. The ambulance, owned by Midwest Medical of North Carolina, was transporting no patients at the time.
The impact was devastating, causing both vehicles to erupt in flames. First responders from Chesapeake Fire and Rescue worked to extinguish the blaze and treat the victims.
Authorities confirmed that the driver of the Lexus, 39-year-old Shakena Shamae Taylor-Pannell of Virginia Beach, died at the scene.
Inside the ambulance, two North Carolina residents sustained catastrophic injuries. The passenger, 53-year-old Stephen Michael Anderson, succumbed to his injuries after being transported to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. The driver, 22-year-old Skye A. Oraczewski of Elizabeth City, North Carolina, remains hospitalized in critical condition.
Taylor-Pannell’s family has been notified, and Anderson’s death leaves his loved ones and colleagues mourning a sudden and devastating loss.
State Police said alcohol and speed are being examined as possible contributing factors, though the investigation remains in its early stages.
The crash forced a full closure of all southbound lanes of I-464 at Military Highway. The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) established a detour at Freeman Avenue while crews worked to investigate and clear the wreckage. Lanes were reopened later in the morning.
The tragedy has left deep scars in both Virginia and North Carolina communities. Emergency responders underscored the dangers of wrong-way driving, particularly when compounded by speed or impairment.
“This is a devastating reminder of how quickly lives can be lost on our roadways,” a State Police spokesperson said. “Our hearts go out to the families impacted by this senseless tragedy.”
As investigators continue to piece together the events leading up to the crash, officials urge drivers to remain vigilant, never drive impaired, and take extra precautions during overnight hours, when wrong-way incidents are most likely to occur.
Anyone who may have witnessed the collision or observed the Lexus prior to the crash is asked to contact Virginia State Police Chesapeake Division.
