LEONARDTOWN, MD — A serious motor vehicle crash occurred early Saturday morning, resulting in a truck colliding with Holy Face Church in Great Mills, MD, and leaving the driver gravely injured. The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office (SMCSO) reported that patrol units were dispatched to Point Lookout Road around 1:36 a.m., April 6, 2024, following alerts of the crash.
Upon arrival, deputies discovered a 2005 Ford F-150 truck embedded in the structure of Holy Face Church. Nicholas Aaron Fondren, 22, of California, MD, identified as the sole occupant and driver of the vehicle, was found trapped inside the truck and in serious condition.
Emergency responders worked swiftly to free Fondren from the wreckage. Following his extrication by local fire and emergency medical services, Fondren was airlifted to a nearby trauma center by Maryland State Police Aviation’s Trooper 7 for immediate medical attention.
The incident prompted a response from the SMCSO Collision Reconstruction Unit to take charge of the ongoing investigation. Preliminary findings suggest the truck was southbound on Point Lookout Road towards Great Mills Road when it veered off the roadway, traveled approximately 450 feet, and impacted the church building. Speed, driver error, and alcohol are currently being investigated as the primary factors contributing to the tragic event.
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the crash, including eyewitness accounts or details leading up to the incident, to reach out. Corporal Jason Smith is the point of contact for such information, which can be submitted via email at Jason.Smith@stmaryscountymd.gov or by calling 301-475-4200, extension 2328.
The investigation is ongoing as officials work to ascertain the complete circumstances surrounding the crash. The community is reminded of the importance of road safety and vigilance while driving.
