Tow Truck Operator Killed In Hit-And-Run In Prince George's County
TEMPLE HILLS, Md. (WJZ) — Maryland State Police are investigating a fatal hit-and-run late Wednesday night in Prince George's County.
Troopers responded to a report of a pedestrian crash shortly after 10:30 p.m. in the area of southbound Branch Avenue and Coventry Way in Temple Hills.
The victim, a 63-year-old man, who was a tow truck operator, had come to help a disabled vehicle in the shoulder of the road.
Investigators believe the victim was struck as he was walking back toward his truck while loading the vehicle. The truck and the disabled vehicle were both in the shoulder at the time of the crash.
"Had his lights on, like he was supposed to," Maryland State Police Spokesman Ron Snyder said. "Remained on the shoulder, like he was supposed to, and still, we had this case that ended in tragic consequences."
According to police, the tow truck driver was contracted by AAA.
AAA-Mid Atlantic says 23 tow truck drivers are killed nationwide each year. Last year, Maryland expanded its Move Over Law to include all service vehicles.
"What makes it even more tragic and more disturbing that someone struck this person and just left them on the road to die. Didn't stop to render aid. Didn't stop to call the police," Regina Cooper Ali, of AAA-Mid Atlantic, said.
The victim, whose identity will not be released until next of kin is notified, was declared dead at the scene by Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department personnel.
"When you're on the side of the road, even if you see the lights flashing and can't move over, just slow down," AAA Safety and Performance Coordinator Keynda Griffin said. "Just think about, that's someone's family that's on the side of the road."
State Police are searching for the vehicle involved they believe is a white or silver GMC SUV or truck.
The Maryland State Police Crash Team is continuing the investigation into this incident. Anyone with information on this case is asked to contact the Forestville Barrack at 301- 568-8101.
