Greenbelt, Maryland, December 30, 2025
A fatal incident occurred on I-495 when a woman fleeing from a police pursuit was struck and killed by another vehicle in Greenbelt, Maryland. The police chase began over reckless driving and ended with multiple vehicle collisions, highlighting the dangers of high-speed pursuits. Authorities emphasize the need for road safety and are investigating the incidents to prevent future occurrences.
Tragic Fatal Incident on I-495 in Maryland
Greenbelt, Maryland – A tragic incident unfolded on the Capital Beltway (I-495) in Greenbelt, Maryland, when a woman attempting to flee a police pursuit was struck and killed by another vehicle after running into traffic.
The Maryland State Police reported that the unfortunate event began when a Virginia State Police trooper attempted to stop a vehicle for reckless driving on I-495 northbound near Gallows Road. The driver, identified as 21-year-old Cory Michael-Joseph Zufall of Reisterstown, Maryland, exited the highway at Gallows Road. The trooper’s attempt to stop Zufall failed, leading him back onto I-95 northbound. After exiting onto Route 7 eastbound, Zufall made contact with the mirror of another vehicle. A subsequent attempt by the authorities to stop him also yielded no results. Near the intersection of Route 7 and South Walter Reed Drive, Zufall lost control and collided with a Honda Odyssey minivan and an empty WMATA bus before ultimately crashing into a jersey wall.
In a separate but related incident, another suspect attempted to evade the police after a crash on I-495, resulting in their arrest. In this case, a Virginia State Police trooper was pursuing a reckless driver; after crossing into Maryland, the suspect struck two vehicles, injuring one person, before crashing into a patrol car and a jersey wall. These incidents emphasize the significant dangers involved with high-speed police pursuits and the associated risks to both law enforcement personnel and the public.
Factors Leading to Police Pursuit
The high-speed pursuit began when a Virginia State Police trooper noticed reckless driving behavior on I-495. This highlights ongoing issues regarding road safety and the need for vigilant law enforcement to mitigate such occurrences.
Key Developments During the Pursuit
During the pursuit, Zufall exited the highway at Gallows Road but re-entered I-95, only to exit again onto Route 7. His failure to maintain control of the vehicle resulted in a collision with several other vehicles, substantially increasing the risk of injury for others on the road.
Context of the Accidents
These recent incidents serve to underline the potential hazards associated with police pursuits. They raise important questions regarding law enforcement protocols, the safety of innocent bystanders, and the need for effective measures to limit the necessity of high-speed chases, while still ensuring public safety.
Investigation and Future Measures
Authorities are actively investigating both incidents, aiming to establish the circumstances leading to the unsafe driving behaviors and evaluating current practices related to police pursuits. These investigations could lead to recommendations for preventing future occurrences and increasing public safety on roadways.
Conclusion
The tragic incidents on I-495 remind us of the importance of road safety and the role of law enforcement in maintaining it. As investigations unfold, it’s crucial for the community to stay informed and support efforts aimed at reducing reckless driving and enhancing public safety. We encourage everyone in the community to remain vigilant and to support local initiatives aimed at promoting responsible driving behaviors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What led to the police pursuit on I-495 in Maryland?
The pursuit began when a Virginia State Police trooper attempted to stop a vehicle for reckless driving on I-495 northbound near Gallows Road. The driver, later identified as 21-year-old Cory Michael-Joseph Zufall of Reisterstown, Maryland, fled the scene, leading to a high-speed chase.
What happened during the pursuit?
During the pursuit, Zufall exited the highway at Gallows Road, re-entered I-95 northbound, and then exited onto Route 7 eastbound. He lost control of his vehicle near the intersection of Route 7 and South Walter Reed Drive, striking a Honda Odyssey minivan and a WMATA bus that did not have any passengers on board. The pursuit ended when Zufall crashed into a jersey wall.
Were there any injuries reported?
Yes, during the pursuit, the suspect struck two vehicles, injuring one person. The exact nature and extent of the injuries are not specified in the available reports.
What is the current status of the investigation?
Authorities are continuing to investigate these incidents to determine the exact circumstances and to implement measures aimed at preventing similar occurrences in the future.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Greenbelt, Maryland, on I-495 northbound near Gallows Road |
| Suspect’s Identity | 21-year-old Cory Michael-Joseph Zufall of Reisterstown, Maryland |
| Incident Type | High-speed police pursuit leading to a fatality |
| Vehicles Involved | Honda Odyssey minivan, WMATA bus, and the suspect’s vehicle |
| Outcome | Suspect lost control, struck other vehicles, and crashed into a jersey wall; pursuit ended |
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