GERMANTOWN, MD — In the early hours of Saturday morning, July 5, 2025, a devastating head-on collision on Interstate 270 in Germantown claimed the lives of Ashley Salazar, 25, of Clarksburg, and Jeremy De La Torre, 33, of Frederick. The tragic crash occurred just before 3 a.m. and has sent shockwaves through the Montgomery County community, leaving loved ones of both victims grappling with overwhelming grief and unanswered questions.

According to the Montgomery County Police Department, Ashley Salazar was driving a Chevrolet Cruze northbound in the southbound lanes of I-270 when she collided head-on with a Honda Accord being driven by De La Torre. Emergency responders arrived on the scene within minutes, but tragically, both drivers were pronounced dead at the scene. No passengers were reported in either vehicle.

The cause of the wrong-way driving incident remains under active investigation. Authorities are working to determine how and why Salazar entered the highway in the wrong direction. Toxicology reports, traffic surveillance footage, and witness accounts are being reviewed as part of the inquiry. As of now, investigators have not released any indication of impairment, distraction, or mechanical failure.

The Maryland State Highway Administration assisted with overnight road closures and traffic control, as the northbound lanes of I-270 were shut down for several hours following the crash. All lanes have since been reopened.

A Life Cut Tragically Short

Ashley Salazar’s death has left her family and friends in Clarksburg heartbroken. A young woman described as ambitious, loving, and full of life, Ashley had recently started making strides toward a career in the health and wellness field. She was known for her radiant smile, her compassionate spirit, and the energy she brought to every room she entered.

“She was just 25. She had so many plans, so much ahead of her,” said a close friend. “Ashley was the person you could count on—kind, driven, and always trying to better herself and help others. This just doesn’t feel real.”

While many mourn her loss, the tragedy is compounded by the death of Jeremy De La Torre, a man remembered by his own community as hardworking, loyal, and dedicated to his family. The collision that claimed both of their lives has become a moment of collective mourning for two grieving towns—Clarksburg and Frederick—brought together by a tragic, irreversible event.

A Grim Reminder of Roadway Dangers

The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers that exist on the roads—especially during overnight hours when visibility is low and driver fatigue or disorientation can lead to catastrophic outcomes. While wrong-way crashes are statistically rare, they are often fatal due to their high-speed, head-on nature.

Law enforcement officials and transportation agencies have been increasingly focused on preventing such incidents through clearer signage, enhanced lighting, and public education campaigns. The tragedy on I-270 reinforces the need for ongoing efforts to ensure driver safety and public awareness.

Ongoing Investigation and Community Mourning

The investigation into the fatal crash is expected to take several weeks. Police are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or seen Salazar’s vehicle before the collision to come forward with information.

Meanwhile, friends, family, and community members have begun organizing tributes and memorials to honor both lives lost. Online tributes have surfaced for Ashley, many including photos of her smiling and vibrant—capturing the essence of a life that, though short, deeply touched many.

“She had a heart of gold,” wrote one relative. “This world is darker without her in it.”

As Montgomery County comes to terms with the loss, the hope remains that answers will emerge to help bring closure to grieving families—and that this painful moment may lead to measures that prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Rest in peace, Ashley Salazar and Jeremy De La Torre. Your memories live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved you.