Baltimore, January 15, 2026
A Baltimore woman has pleaded guilty to a hit-and-run incident that injured a police officer during the Baltimore Running Festival. Lakia Stevenson admitted to fleeing the scene, violating Maryland law. The officer, who was working at the festival, sustained injuries and required hospitalization. Stevenson faces ongoing legal proceedings and will be sentenced shortly. The incident raises concerns about safety for pedestrians and officers during large public events in Baltimore.
Baltimore Woman Pleads Guilty to Hit-and-Run of Police Officer During 2025 Baltimore Running Festival
Baltimore, Maryland – A Baltimore woman has pleaded guilty to charges related to a hit-and-run incident involving a police officer during the 2025 Baltimore Running Festival. The defendant, Lakia Stevenson, admitted to failing to immediately stop at the scene of an accident involving bodily injury, a violation of Maryland law.
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred on October 15, 2025, when a Baltimore Police officer was struck by a vehicle near the Baltimore Running Festival. The officer was working at the event when the collision took place. Stevenson, the driver involved, fled the scene without providing assistance or reporting the accident to authorities, as required by law. The officer sustained injuries and was subsequently transported to a local hospital for medical care. Stevenson was later apprehended and charged in connection with the incident.
Legal Proceedings and Plea
Following her arrest, Stevenson faced charges for failing to immediately stop at the scene of an accident involving bodily injury. In a recent court appearance, she pleaded guilty to these charges. The court proceedings are ongoing, and Stevenson is expected to be sentenced in the near future. The guilty plea indicates Stevenson’s acknowledgment of her actions and their consequences.
Background on the Baltimore Running Festival
The Baltimore Running Festival is an annual event that attracts thousands of participants from around the world. It features various races, including a marathon, half marathon, and relay events, and is a significant occasion for the city, promoting health, fitness, and community engagement. The festival also involves numerous volunteers and law enforcement personnel to ensure the safety and smooth operation of the event.
Implications and Community Response
The hit-and-run incident has raised concerns within the Baltimore community regarding pedestrian and officer safety during large public events. Local authorities have emphasized the importance of adhering to traffic laws and the responsibilities of drivers, especially in areas with high pedestrian activity. The case has also highlighted the need for increased awareness and vigilance to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Conclusion
The guilty plea by Lakia Stevenson serves as a reminder of the critical importance of road safety and the legal obligations of drivers, particularly in environments with high pedestrian traffic. The ongoing legal proceedings will determine the appropriate sentencing, reflecting the seriousness of the offense and its impact on the community.
What charges did Lakia Stevenson plead guilty to?
Stevenson pleaded guilty to failing to immediately stop at the scene of an accident involving bodily injury, a violation of Maryland law.
When did the hit-and-run incident occur?
The incident occurred on October 15, 2025, during the Baltimore Running Festival.
What is the Baltimore Running Festival?
The Baltimore Running Festival is an annual event featuring various races, including a marathon, half marathon, and relay events, attracting participants from around the world.
What are the potential consequences for failing to stop at the scene of an accident in Maryland?
In Maryland, failing to stop at the scene of an accident involving bodily injury can result in serious legal consequences, including fines and imprisonment, depending on the circumstances.
How has the community responded to the incident?
The community has expressed concern over pedestrian and officer safety during large public events and emphasized the importance of adhering to traffic laws to prevent similar incidents.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Lakia Stevenson |
| Charge | Failing to immediately stop at the scene of an accident involving bodily injury |
| Incident Date | October 15, 2025 |
| Location | Near the Baltimore Running Festival |
| Victim | Baltimore Police officer |
| Stevenson’s Action | Fled the scene without providing assistance or reporting the accident |
| Officer’s Condition | Sustained injuries; transported to a local hospital |
| Stevenson’s Legal Status | Pleaded guilty; awaiting sentencing |
| Community Concern | Raised issues regarding pedestrian and officer safety during large public events |
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