Triple Fatality in Maryland Hit-and-Run Prompts Investigation and Public Appeal for Information

Maryland State Police are actively investigating a tragic crash that occurred early Sunday morning in Prince George’s County, resulting in the deaths of three individuals. The incident, which took place around 12:45 a.m. on July 12, involved a passenger vehicle and a motorcycle.

The preliminary investigation, as released by the Maryland Department of State Police, suggests that a black Tesla Model 3 was attempting to turn left from Route 301 onto Governor’s Park Lane. During this maneuver, the Tesla reportedly failed to yield the right-of-way to a southbound Harley-Davidson motorcycle traveling on Route 301. The collision occurred when the motorcycle struck the passenger side of the Tesla.

Investigators believe a third, unidentified vehicle then struck the Harley-Davidson motorcycle following the initial impact between the Tesla and the motorcycle. This third vehicle subsequently left the scene, and authorities are now seeking the public’s assistance in identifying both the driver and the vehicle involved. Anyone with information pertinent to the investigation is urged to contact Sergeant Gore at 410-819-4753.

Tragically, the operator of the Harley-Davidson, identified as 48-year-old Matthew Eric Vowell of Friendship, Maryland, and his passenger, 47-year-old Krystal Ann Vowell, also of Friendship, Maryland, were both pronounced deceased at the scene. The rear passenger of the Tesla, 22-year-old Adriana Lanae Maxwell of Glen Burnie, Maryland, also sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the Tesla was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment. Authorities believe the Tesla was operating as a rideshare vehicle at the time of the crash.

The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration provided assistance by managing road closures, which remained in effect for over four hours while investigators processed the scene. The Maryland State Police Crash Team is spearheading this ongoing investigation. Once the investigation is complete, the findings will be submitted to the Office of the State’s Attorney in Prince George’s County for review to determine if any charges will be filed.

This investigation underscores the critical importance of traffic safety and the severe consequences of failing to yield the right-of-way. Drivers are reminded to exercise caution and remain vigilant, especially when operating on busy roadways or during nighttime hours. Law enforcement officials are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has any information regarding the hit-and-run vehicle to come forward. The cooperation of the public is vital in bringing closure to this tragic event.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Maryland Department of State Police

Video Spotlight