There is a strong indication that the driver that caused the accident fell asleep just prior to the collision. In addition, Controlled Dangerous Substance Paraphernalia was found in the vehicle.
On 03-09-2006 at 0846 hours the driver of a 2000 Mazda MPV Van was traveling southbound on Route 235 just south of Route 489. The driver, Terry L. O'Niel, 3rd, age 24, of no fixed address, crossed over the center line into the path of a 1999 Chevrolet Astro Van driven by Dana L. Holt, age 25 of Lexington Park, MD. Ms. Holt swerved to avoid the collision but was still struck on the driver's side of her vehicle. This caused her vehicle to exit the right roadside, roll over, and come to rest on it's passenger side in a grassy area.
The Mazda continued southbound in the northbound lane and struck a Buick LeSabre driven by Barbara C. Shuebrooks, age 46 of Scotland, MD, head-on. This caused serious life-threatening injuries to Ms. Shuebrooks. She was flown to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma unit in Baltimore. She is currently in serious but stable condition.
Ms. Holt received non-life threatening injuries and was treated and released at St. Mary's Hospital. Mr. O'Neil received non-life threatening injuries to his legs and was flown to Prince Georges Trauma Center.
There is a strong indication that the driver of the Mazda fell asleep just prior to the collision. No other occupants were in the vehicles and everyone was wearing seatbelts. Currently charges are pending completion of the investigation. In addition, Controlled Dangerous Substance Paraphernalia was found in the Mazda during the investigation and charges are pending test results from the Maryland State Police crime lab.
Initial investigation was by SDFC Cara Grumbles, DFC Harold Young, and Dep. Terry Kile. In addition follow-up investigation will be conducted the by the Sheriff's Office Collision Reconstruction Investigative Team.