Three injured after driver goes wrong way on I-275

TAMPA (Bay News 9) -- A driver traveling the wrong way on I-275 caused a car crash that sent three people to the hospital Saturday night.

According to reports from the Florida Highway Patrol, 32-year-old Ryan Suarez was driving south in the northbound lanes of I-275 near the Kennedy Boulevard exit in Tampa. At the same time, 20-year-old Andrew Ryan was driving north.

Investigators said that Ryan swerved to the right to avoid Suarez's car, but Suarez's car still managed to hit the driver's door of Ryan's car. After the impact, both cars spun out and came to rest, one in the middle of the highway and one on the shoulder.

Ryan and his passenger, 20-year-old Melinda Quick, were both taken to Tampa General Hospital with injuries described as serious.

Suarez was also taken to Tampa General Hospital. However, he only has minor injuries.

Investigators said they believe Suarez was driving on the wrong side of I-275 for one or two miles before the crash.

They also said they believe the crash was alcohol-related.

Officials say charges are pending the outcome of blood alcohol tests.

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