Three car crash on Capital Boulevard, two drivers suspected of intoxication
Three vehicles collided at Capital Boulevard and Wake Forest Road in Raleigh just after 2:30 a.m. on December seventh, police said, and while two drivers were suspected of being intoxicated there were no injuries and the roadway reopened shortly after. The crash highlights late night safety risks and the need for residents to plan safe rides during busy holiday periods.
Raleigh police responded to a three vehicle collision at the intersection of Capital Boulevard and Wake Forest Road in the early hours of Sunday, December seventh. Officers say the crash occurred just after 2:30 a.m. Two of the drivers were suspected of being intoxicated, but police reported no injuries. Part of Capital Boulevard was closed while crews cleared the scene, and the roadway reopened shortly after.
Authorities did not release the identities of those involved and provided no additional details about citations or arrests. Tow trucks and emergency responders were on site to remove damaged vehicles and clear debris, limiting the closure to the immediate area of the crash. The timing of the collision meant there was limited impact on morning rush hour, though early cleanup likely prevented longer disruptions on a major arterial route into Raleigh.
For Wake County residents, the episode underscores several practical points. Late night and early morning traffic patterns can present heightened safety risks, particularly during holiday periods when social gatherings and late service hours increase the share of nighttime travel. Even when crashes result in no injuries, they impose direct costs on the community through emergency response time, towing and cleanup expenses, and temporary congestion on key corridors.
From a policy perspective, the incident reinforces the role of enforcement, public information and alternative transportation options in reducing impaired driving. Raleigh police have not released procedural details, but the presence of suspected intoxication in two of the three vehicles will likely shape any subsequent reports and possible legal actions. Residents should consider planning rides, using designated drivers or ride services, and allowing extra travel time on routes that serve bars and entertainment districts.
The crash will be part of routine incident reporting and follow up by police. Until officials release further information on charges or citations, the confirmed facts remain that three vehicles collided, two drivers were suspected of intoxication, no one was injured, and Capital Boulevard was closed briefly before reopening.
