UPDATE 4 p.m.
A tragic work zone crash today claimed the lives of two Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) contractor employees that were mowing grass near the intersection of MD 228 (Berry Road) and MD 229 (Bennsville Road) in Charles County. SHA expresses its condolences to the victims’ families and their co-workers.
“The Maryland Department of Transportation and its employees are saddened by the loss of two contractor employees who were killed as they were mowing grass,” said Transportation Secretary Beverley K. Swaim-Staley. “We extend our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of the two men, as well as their co-workers.”
This afternoon, a crew of three people was finishing grass mowing at the intersection of MD 228 (Berry Road) at MD 229 (Bennsville Road), approximately six miles west of Waldorf. Initial reports indicate that a single vehicle struck the crew members. Maryland State Police continues to review the crash and SHA is supporting the investigation. MSP has not released the names of the victims pending notification of next-of-kin.
“It is beyond tragic two people just doing their jobs on the road are not going home tonight,” said SHA Administrator and Governor’s Highway Representative Neil J. Pedersen. “Many times, the only thing separating a 2,000 pound vehicle from one of our highway workers is a barrel or a cone. We must all obey speed limits and pay attention when driving, especially in work zones.”
SHA urges drivers when traveling Maryland roads this fall please remain alert for construction, maintenance and emergency operations. At any time, there may be hundreds of active work zones around the State – particularly when you consider local public works and utility projects. These may include long-term large construction projects, as well as smaller, temporary, moving work zones, inspections, surveys, debris and litter pick-up operations and pothole repairs.
Maryland State Police in La Plata are currently investigating a fatal crash along Route 228 (Berry Road) at Route 229 (Bennsville Road) in Waldorf.
Authorities say the crash occurred at 1:25 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 21.
Investigation revealed a single vehicle struck three contract employees working at a nearby construction site after plowing through the construction cones.
Police have confirmed at least two fatalities.
Route 228 will be shut down for an extended period of time for accident reconstruction.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area and use alternative routes.
More information to follow as it becomes available.