Authorities in Newton County have confirmed the arrest of a 75-year-old woman after she was caught driving the wrong way on the interstate in an incident that could have had devastating consequences.
Joyce Stanley of Wichita, Kansas, was taken into custody after officers observed her traveling northbound in the southbound lanes of Interstate 49, creating a highly dangerous situation for other motorists. According to law enforcement, the incident occurred during a time of moderate traffic, raising significant concerns for public safety.
Fortunately, no collisions occurred before Ms. Stanley was safely brought to a stop by responding officers. She was arrested at the scene on suspicion of Driving While Intoxicated (DWI), a Class B Misdemeanor under Missouri state law. She was transported to the Newton County Jail, where she was processed and later released to the custody of family members.
As with all legal matters, it is important to note that Joyce Stanley is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Law enforcement officials stress how quickly wrong-way driving incidents can escalate into serious or even fatal crashes. A vehicle traveling against the flow of traffic on a high-speed roadway like I-49 leaves little to no reaction time for other drivers, increasing the likelihood of head-on collisions, which are often among the most deadly types of accidents on the road.
The Newton County Sheriff’s Office released a statement urging the public to think twice before getting behind the wheel while impaired:
“Whether it’s alcohol, prescription drugs, marijuana, or any other substance that impairs your ability to drive, the risks are far too high. Stay home. Arrange a ride. Do whatever it takes to avoid putting lives at risk. Impaired driving doesn’t just endanger your life—it endangers everyone on the road.”
Public safety advocates echo this message, reminding drivers that impaired driving is never worth the gamble. While this particular situation ended without injury, authorities caution that not all such incidents are so fortunate.
The incident serves as a sobering reminder—driving under the influence at any age, in any form, is illegal and potentially fatal. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the case, and more details may emerge as it proceeds through the legal system.
If you or a loved one struggles with alcohol or substance use, local resources and support programs are available to help. Safe choices save lives—don’t drive impaired.