A tragic incident unfolded on the night of April 22, when a pedestrian was fatally struck in a multi-vehicle crash on DC-295. The Metropolitan Police Department has confirmed the event, reporting that Sixth District officers were called to the scene near the Pennsylvania Avenue, Southeast exit shortly after 11:30 p.m.
Upon arrival, law enforcement and emergency personnel found 47-year-old Edward Pearson, a resident of Southeast, D.C., in a critical condition. Despite all lifesaving efforts employed by DC Fire and EMS, Pearson succumbed to his injuries after being transported to a local hospital. In an announcement released by MPD, Pearson's unfortunate demise has left a somber tone over the city's streets.
Initial findings by MPD's Major Crash Investigations Unit suggest a sequence of events that began with a stationary 2017 GMC Sierra. The pickup truck had pulled over due to a loose truck bed cover, prompting Pearson, the passenger, to step out to secure it. It was then that a red 2005 Chrysler Sebring collided with the rear of the GMC and Pearson after improperly merging from the I-695 on-ramp onto northbound DC-295. The impact led to further calamity as a 2013 Toyota Avalon subsequently struck the GMC and Pearson, who was already in a vulnerable position on the roadway.
The drivers involved in the incident—both the Chrysler and the Toyota—remained on the scene. The driver and passenger of the Chrysler were treated for minor injuries at nearby hospitals, according to the MPD release. The Toyota's occupants did not report any injuries. Detectives from the crash unit are continuing their investigation into the specifics of the accident. Information regarding the crash has been shared widely, as officials urge those with any knowledge related to the incident to come forward by calling (202) 727-9099 or sending a text to MPD's TEXT TIP LINE at 50411.
