Gaithersburg, Maryland, December 3, 2025
An 18-year-old from Germantown has been charged in a fatal crash that killed 88-year-old Myrtle Gottlieb in Gaithersburg. The incident occurred when Gottlieb’s car was rear-ended by a Jeep driven by the suspect, who was found to be intoxicated and unlicensed. Legal proceedings are underway following the investigation.
Germantown Teen Charged in Fatal Gaithersburg Crash
Gaithersburg, Maryland – An 18-year-old Germantown man has been charged in connection with a fatal car crash that occurred on May 31, 2025, in Gaithersburg, Maryland. The collision resulted in the death of 88-year-old Myrtle Gottlieb of Rockville.
Details of the Incident
The crash took place around 8:35 a.m. at the intersection of westbound Sam Eig Highway and Fields Road. A blue 2017 Toyota Corolla, driven by Gottlieb, was stopped at a red light when it was rear-ended by a blue 2018 Jeep Compass driven by Liam Donnelly Coskun. The impact caused serious injuries to Gottlieb, who was transported to a local hospital and later died from her injuries on June 4, 2025.
Investigation Findings
Investigators determined that Coskun was intoxicated and traveling at a high rate of speed at the time of the crash. He was arrested at the scene on suspicion of driving under the influence. A breathalyzer test conducted approximately two hours after the collision registered a blood alcohol content of 0.09%, above Maryland’s legal limit of 0.08%. Additionally, Coskun was found to be unlicensed, lacking a valid driver’s license in any state.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Following a thorough investigation, Coskun was charged with negligent manslaughter by vehicle and negligent homicide by vehicle while under the influence. He turned himself in on November 21, 2025, after an arrest warrant was issued. The case underscores the dangers of impaired and unlicensed driving, highlighting the potential consequences of such actions.
Background Context
Fatal traffic accidents involving impaired and unlicensed drivers continue to be a significant concern in Maryland. In a similar case, 22-year-old Kevin Orihuela was convicted in October 2023 for causing a fatal crash while under the influence, resulting in the death of 62-year-old Noel Powell of Germantown. Orihuela faces up to 15 years in prison, with sentencing scheduled for December 15, 2023. These incidents emphasize the importance of responsible driving and adherence to traffic laws to prevent tragic outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What charges has Liam Donnelly Coskun faced?
Coskun has been charged with negligent manslaughter by vehicle and negligent homicide by vehicle while under the influence.
When did the fatal crash occur?
The crash occurred on May 31, 2025, at approximately 8:35 a.m. in Gaithersburg, Maryland.
What was the blood alcohol content of Coskun at the time of the crash?
Coskun’s blood alcohol content was 0.09%, above Maryland’s legal limit of 0.08%.
What is the legal status of Coskun’s driver’s license?
Coskun was found to be unlicensed, lacking a valid driver’s license in any state.
What is the significance of this case in the context of Maryland traffic incidents?
This case highlights the dangers of impaired and unlicensed driving, emphasizing the potential consequences of such actions in Maryland.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Gaithersburg, Maryland |
| Date and Time | May 31, 2025, at approximately 8:35 a.m. |
| Victim | Myrtle Gottlieb, 88, of Rockville |
| Driver Charged | Liam Donnelly Coskun, 18, of Germantown |
| Charges | Negligent manslaughter by vehicle, negligent homicide by vehicle while under the influence |
| Blood Alcohol Content | 0.09% |
| License Status | Unlicensed |
| Investigation Outcome | Coskun turned himself in on November 21, 2025 |
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