Oxon Hill, MD (February 3, 2025) – A tragic incident unfolded Saturday evening in Oxon Hill, where a woman lost her life while attempting to cross Interstate 495 after crashing a carjacked vehicle.
According to the Maryland Attorney General’s Independent Investigations Division (IID), officers located a vehicle that had been reported carjacked earlier in the day at a shopping center in the 6000 block of Oxon Hill Road. At approximately 7:58 p.m., a woman entered the stolen vehicle and began driving.
Officers from the Prince George’s County Police Department, Forest Heights Police Department, and Edmonston Police Department initiated a pursuit, attempting to stop the vehicle. The woman later crashed on I-495 and, in an attempt to flee, tried to cross the interstate on foot. Tragically, she was struck by an oncoming vehicle and succumbed to her injuries at the scene.
Authorities are actively investigating the sequence of events leading up to the fatal collision. Additional details regarding the woman’s identity and the circumstances surrounding the crash have not yet been released.
Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones affected by this heartbreaking incident.
Pedestrian Accidents on Highways in Maryland
Pedestrian accidents on highways are often severe due to high-speed traffic and limited visibility. In Maryland, incidents involving individuals attempting to cross busy roadways, such as I-495, highlight the significant dangers of pedestrian presence on highways. Unlike city streets, interstates are not designed for pedestrian access, making any attempt to cross them extremely hazardous.
Factors contributing to pedestrian-related highway accidents include impaired visibility, driver reaction time, and the inability of vehicles to stop quickly at high speeds. Law enforcement often urges individuals in distress to remain in their vehicles and wait for emergency responders rather than attempting to cross active traffic lanes.
While every case is unique, families who lose loved ones in pedestrian accidents may have legal options, especially when law enforcement pursuits or other external factors play a role in the incident. Understanding the legal implications surrounding such tragic events can provide clarity for those seeking answers and support.
If you or someone you know has been impacted by a pedestrian accident, seeking professional guidance can help navigate the challenges that follow.