Trooper Struck On Shoulder Of I-495

(GREENBELT, MD) — A Maryland state trooper and the driver of a passenger car remain hospitalized this afternoon following a crash this morning that occurred as the trooper was monitoring traffic on the shoulder of I-495 in Prince George’s County.

The trooper is identified as Trooper First Class Robert Cearfoss, who is assigned to road patrol duties at the College Park Barrack. TFC Cearfoss was flown by Maryland State Police helicopter to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center where he continues to undergo treatment.

The other driver involved is identified as Elwin J. Cedilloz, 23, of Washington, D.C. He was transported by ambulance to Prince George’s Hospital Trauma Center.

Shortly before 8:00 a.m. today, TFC Cearfoss was parked on the shoulder of inner loop of I-495, near Rt. 1. He was monitoring traffic on the beltway and was in a marked 2016 Ford Explorer patrol vehicle. For reasons unknown at this time, a 2016 Dodge Dart, driven by Cedilloz, left the travel portion of the inner loop of I-495 and struck the rear of the State Police patrol vehicle.

The force of the crash trapped TFC Cearfoss in his vehicle. He was extricated by responding fire and rescue personnel.

Charges are pending at this time. The cause of the crash has not been positively identified, but troopers are investigating the possibility that alcohol was involved.

MDOT State Highway Administration personnel responded to the scene to close lanes as needed for scene safety, rescue, investigation, and the landing of the State Police medevac helicopter. All lanes of I-495 were reopened at about 11:30 a.m. today.

The investigation is continuing.