A driver is facing charges after a Virginia Safety Service Patrol (VSSP) worker was struck and killed while helping a stranded motorist on Interstate 95 in Prince William County. According to the Virginia State Police (VSP), the collision occurred just before 8 p.m. Saturday, on northbound I-95 near Dumfries.
Investigators said the VSSP patroller was assisting the driver of a disabled Audi on the right shoulder when the driver of a Chrysler 300 allegedly lost control, crossed all lanes, and struck both men. The patroller was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition and later died of his injuries. The Audi driver suffered serious injuries but is expected to survive.
The fatal incident comes two years after Virginia updated its Move Over law requiring drivers to change lanes and provide extra space when passing emergency workers or disabled vehicles on the side of the road.
The VSSP patroller was a Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) contractor employed by Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Operations, and Management (AECOM).
“We have all been deeply impacted and are mourning this tragic loss of a teammate,” VDOT said in a statement. “In his honor, it is imperative to remind and emphasize the need for all motorists to drive with caution and care on our roadways.”
Police said the Chrysler driver remained on scene and potential charges may be pending. The crash remains under investigation.
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