Hagerstown, MD (January 29, 2025) – A Hagerstown woman was killed early Wednesday morning in a crash involving an SUV and a tractor-trailer on Halfway Boulevard.
According to the Hagerstown Police Department, the crash occurred around 4 a.m. when an SUV traveling westbound on Halfway Boulevard struck the rear of a tractor-trailer at the traffic light leading to Interstate 81.
Emergency responders arrived to find the SUV driver, identified as 64-year-old Theresa Marie Poffenberger, unresponsive. Officers immediately initiated CPR, but she was pronounced deceased after EMS crews arrived on the scene.
The driver of the tractor-trailer was not injured in the crash. The Hagerstown Police Department’s Crash Investigation Team is reviewing the incident to determine the cause.
Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of Theresa Marie Poffenberger during this difficult time.
Rear-End Collisions Involving Large Trucks in Maryland
Accidents involving passenger vehicles and large commercial trucks, like the tragic crash in Hagerstown, often result in severe injuries or fatalities. Due to their size and weight, tractor-trailers require significantly longer stopping distances, and collisions with these heavy vehicles can be devastating.
Rear-end crashes involving trucks frequently occur in areas with traffic lights, highway entrances, and sudden slowdowns. Factors such as driver fatigue, reduced visibility, road conditions, and speed can all contribute to these accidents.
Maryland drivers are reminded to maintain safe following distances, especially when approaching intersections or stoplights where larger vehicles may be stopped or slowing down. Defensive driving techniques, such as staying alert and avoiding distractions, can help reduce the risk of severe crashes.
For families affected by fatal truck accidents, there are support resources available to help navigate medical, financial, and legal concerns. If you or a loved one has been involved in a serious crash, seeking professional assistance can guide the recovery process.