Second Fatal Wrong-Way Crash Prompts New Safety Upgrades at Mitchell Freeway Interchange
Further safety upgrades have been implemented at the Romeo Road and Mitchell Freeway interchange in Alkimos, following a second fatal wrong-way crash in the area within just a few months. This action comes despite an internal investigation concluding that the site complies with all relevant safety standards.
Details of the Recent Crash
The latest probe was initiated after a head-on collision near Lukin Drive in Butler in February, which resulted in two fatalities and two injuries. A 56-year-old woman lost her life when her Toyota Yaris was struck by a white Isuzu utility driven the wrong way by a 24-year-old man, who later died in hospital.
It is believed the white Isuzu entered the freeway via the Romeo Road off-ramp, the same location where a similar head-on collision claimed the life of 60-year-old car enthusiast Johnny Gray in October 2025. Mr Gray's vehicle is also thought to have entered the freeway incorrectly at this off-ramp.
Investigation Findings and Government Response
Main Roads stated that its investigation determined the road environment meets all Australian Standards and Austroads guidelines. However, in response to community concerns, the State Government has announced additional safety upgrades at the interchange.
To deter incorrect vehicle movements onto the Mitchell Freeway via the exit ramp at Romeo Road, Main Roads reshaped and kerbed the already painted median nose on Wednesday night, with plans to infill the kerb by May.
Community and Political Reactions
The Member for Butler, Lorna Clarke MLA, announced the upgrades on her Facebook page, noting she had requested Main Roads to explore safety improvements earlier this year. She emphasized the government's commitment to road safety, stating, "The Cook Labor Government has listened to the local community’s feedback and we will be implementing more changes in an effort to deter incorrect vehicle movements."
She added, "As a mum, I take road safety very seriously and we are committed to maintaining a safe road network for those living and driving through the Butler electorate."
Previous Safety Measures
These latest upgrades mark the second set of safety improvements in the past four months. Following the fatal crash in October, Main Roads installed additional signs, upgraded existing signs to larger versions, added new arrows, and painted pavement markings to highlight the median in December.
WA Police conducted their own investigations into both fatal crashes, underscoring the ongoing efforts to address safety issues at this critical interchange.
