MSP Press Release THREE KILLED IN EARLY MORNING CRASH ON MD 404

Maryland State Police Press Release
04/21/2015

THREE KILLED IN EARLY MORNING CRASH ON MD 404

(Queen Anne’s, MD) – State police are investigating a crash which claimed three lives early this morning, after one of the vehicles drove into oncoming traffic along Route 404 in Talbot County, Maryland.

The people involved are not being identified at this time, pending confirmation of their identities and notifications to next of kin. All were pronounced dead at the scene by emergency medical personnel from Talbot County. Their bodies have been taken to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for autopsies. Investigators are able to confirm the deaths of two male drivers and one female passenger. The occupant of the third vehicle was not injured.

A preliminary investigation conducted by the Maryland State Police CRASH Team, with the assistance of troopers from the Easton Barrack, indicates that just before 7:00 a.m. this morning, the driver of a tractor trailer was traveling westbound on MD 404 in the area of Church Lane. For reasons unknown at this time the vehicle crossed the double yellow lines into the eastbound lane, side swiping another tractor trailer. The westbound tractor trailer continues in the eastbound lanes and struck another tractor trailer head on.

After the second collision, both vehicles came to rest on the eastbound side of the road. At that time the tractor trailer burst into flames and became fully engulfed. The driver of the vehicle was unable to exit the vehicle to safety. The driver and passenger of the westbound tractor were unable to get out of their vehicle.

After receiving the 9-1-1 call, troopers from the Easton Barrack responded along with members from the Talbot County Sheriff’s Office. Emergency medical personnel were contacted and responded to the crash to assist. Talbot County Fire Department was immediately called and responded to handle the fire.

Due to the severity of the crash, MD Route 404 from U. S. 50 east to Church Lane continues to be closed at this time. The Department of the Environment has responded to address the spill of diesel fuel. Canines were called to the scene to search the area for additional victims. Road closures and detours are being handled State Highway Administration personnel.

Anyone who may have witnessed this crash is asked to contact Trooper First Class Gore at the Easton Barrack at (410) 819-4753.

The cause of the crash is under investigation.