Maryland State Police are investigating a fatal pedestrian crash late Thursday night in Charles County’s Waldorf area, where an on-duty trooper’s marked patrol vehicle struck a pedestrian walking in a travel lane of Route 301, followed by additional vehicles.
The incident occurred shortly before midnight on February 12, 2026, on northbound Route 301 between Plaza Drive and St. Patrick’s Drive. The pedestrian, whose identity remains pending following an autopsy at the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore, was pronounced deceased at the scene by Charles County Emergency Medical Services personnel. No other injuries were reported.
Preliminary findings show the trooper was driving north in lane two of the four-lane highway when the patrol vehicle struck the pedestrian. Prior to the crash, the Charles County Sheriff’s Office fielded multiple calls about a person walking in the travel lanes of Route 301. No crosswalk exists at the location.
Troopers from the Maryland State Police La Plata Barrack responded to the scene after reports of a pedestrian-involved crash. The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration managed road closures lasting about two hours, while Charles County Sheriff’s Office deputies provided assistance.
The Maryland State Police Crash Team continues its investigation into the cause. Upon completion, findings will go to the Charles County Office of the State’s Attorney. Separately, Maryland State Police will perform an administrative review, and the involved trooper has been placed on administrative leave per standard protocol.
Sergeant Justin Zimmerman of the Maryland State Police Crash Team is seeking witnesses or anyone with relevant information to contact him at 301-392-1231.
This crash highlights ongoing safety concerns on busy highways like Route 301, where pedestrians in travel lanes face extreme risks, particularly at night and without designated crossings.