Wrong-Way Driver Stopped on F.E. Everett Turnpike in Bedford; Manchester Man Arrested

October 26, 2025 — by Scanner Alerts Media

BEDFORD, N.H. — A Manchester man was arrested early Sunday after driving the wrong way on Interstate 293 and the F.E. Everett Turnpike, according to New Hampshire State Police.

At 1:07 a.m. on Sunday, October 26, 2025, State Police dispatch received multiple reports of a vehicle traveling southbound in the northbound lanes of I-293 in Manchester near Exit 5. Troopers were notified that the wrong-way vehicle continued onto the F.E. Everett Turnpike.

Trooper Madelynn Theve responded and located the vehicle — a silver 2012 Honda Civic — still traveling the wrong way on the Turnpike in Bedford. Trooper Theve activated her emergency lights and effected a stop in the area of mile marker 18.4. The vehicle was brought to a halt without further incident as described in the agency’s summary.

The driver was identified as Benjamin Smith, 25, of Manchester. Following the roadside stop, Smith was taken into custody. State Police list two charges in this case: reckless conduct – deadly weapon and driving while intoxicated. According to the release, Smith is scheduled to appear in Merrimack District Court in early November. No additional court details were provided in the initial information.

The agency’s account focuses on the sequence that began with the 1:07 a.m. dispatch reports, progressed to the locating of the wrong-way Civic by Trooper Theve on the Turnpike, and concluded with the stop at mile marker 18.4 and Smith’s arrest on the listed charges. The information provided to Scanner Alerts Media does not include further details regarding roadway closures, vehicle impoundment, or whether any motorists were forced to take evasive action prior to the stop.

What we know (agency summary):

• Reports of a wrong-way vehicle on I-293 northbound lanes near Exit 5 at 1:07 a.m.

• Vehicle identified as a silver 2012 Honda Civic.

• Located on the F.E. Everett Turnpike in Bedford; stopped near MM 18.4 by Trooper Madelynn Theve.

• Driver identified as Benjamin Smith, 25, of Manchester.

• Charges: reckless conduct – deadly weapon; driving while intoxicated.

• Court: Merrimack District Court, early November (per State Police).

No additional information was included in the release at this time. Any subsequent updates from authorities will be reflected in follow-up reporting.

Credit: New Hampshire State Police