A 58-year-old Bushwood man was killed in a motor vehicle collision on Sugar Hole Road near Old Trappe Lane in Bushwood on October 8, 2025. Dale Lee Buckler was operating a 2008 Ford Ranger westbound when the vehicle left the roadway, struck a driveway culvert and an embankment, rolled over, and came to rest upright. Buckler was pronounced deceased at the scene. The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Collision Reconstruction Unit is investigating the incident, which occurred at approximately 4:55 p.m.
Patrol units from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded initially to reports of a collision with entrapment. Due to the crash’s severity, the Collision Reconstruction Unit assumed the investigation. Preliminary findings indicate the vehicle departed the roadway for unknown reasons. Alcohol does not appear to be a factor at this time. Authorities are seeking witnesses who may have observed the collision or events leading up to it and have not yet provided statements. Individuals with information are asked to contact Corporal Rachael Owens at 301-475-4200, extension 8108, or email Rachael.Owens@stmaryscountymd.gov. Tipsters can also call Crime Solvers at 301-475-3333 or text “Tip239” to 274637 for anonymous reporting.
The Collision Reconstruction Unit handles detailed investigations of serious crashes in St. Mary’s County. While specific details on the unit are integrated into broader sheriff’s office operations, related traffic safety efforts include advanced collision investigation training for specialized personnel. The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Safety Unit, established in 1995, focuses on education and enforcement to enhance roadway safety. Unit members receive training in advanced collision investigation, child safety seat inspection, radar and laser operation, sobriety checkpoint management, and police motor operations. They contribute to programs like Drive to Survive, which educates young drivers on safe habits, and participate in the Maryland Law Enforcement Challenge to promote best practices in traffic enforcement. These efforts align with county-wide initiatives to analyze and mitigate crash risks.
As the investigation continues, authorities emphasize community cooperation through tip lines. Crime Solvers operates 24/7, allowing anonymous contributions that aid reconstructions.
