Fatal Two-Vehicle Collision in Charles County Claims Two Lives

Maryland State Police are investigating a tragic two-vehicle collision that occurred on Wednesday, resulting in the deaths of two individuals and the hospitalization of another in Charles County. The deceased have been identified as Norma Matthews, 81, from Lowell, Massachusetts, and Virginia Licata, 86, from Blackwood, New Jersey.

The crash happened at the intersection of Route 301 and Popes Creek Road in Faulkner, Maryland. Troopers from the La Plata Barrack responded to the scene just before 1:45 p.m. after receiving reports of a serious crash. Initial findings indicate that Matthews, driving a 2004 Toyota Camry with Licata as a passenger, was attempting to cross southbound Route 301 from Popes Creek Road when a 2017 Chevy Sonic traveling south on Route 301 collided with the driver’s side of the Toyota.

Emergency medical services declared Matthews deceased at the scene, while Licata was airlifted by the Maryland State Police Aviation Command to Capital Region Medical Center, where she later succumbed to her injuries. The sole occupant of the Chevy Sonic, 28-year-old Caitlynn Connell from King George, Virginia, was also airlifted to the same medical center for treatment of her injuries.

The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration assisted with road closures, which remained in effect for several hours as authorities worked to clear the scene and investigate the circumstances of the crash. The Maryland State Police Crash Team is leading the investigation to determine the cause of the collision.

The crash has deeply impacted the families of the victims and the community. Norma Matthews and Virginia Licata are remembered as cherished individuals whose lives were abruptly ended in this tragic event. The community is mourning their loss and extending support to their families during this difficult time.

Maryland State Police are urging anyone with information regarding the crash to come forward. Individuals are encouraged to contact Sergeant Zimmerman at 301-392-1231 to assist with the investigation. As authorities continue to gather information and piece together the events leading up to the collision, the priority remains on understanding the circumstances and preventing future accidents.

This incident underscores the importance of road safety and vigilance, especially at busy intersections. The community and authorities alike are reminded of the critical need to ensure safe driving practices to protect all road users. The Maryland State Police are committed to a thorough investigation and ensuring justice for the victims of this tragic accident.