LA PLATA, Md. (April 7, 2008)—An 18-year-old La Plata girl is dead as a result of a single car accident on Sunday morning in Charles County. Rachel Ellen Johnsen of La Plata was pronounced deceased on the scene by medical personnel.
The accident occurred at 8:00 a.m. on Westbound MD Rt. 488 (La Plata Road) east of Cool Springs Farm Place.
According to police, Johnsen's 1995 Pontiac Firebird failed to drive within a single lane, traveled off the roadway and collided with a Verizon telephone pole and a tree.
The police report lists weather (rain), the vehicle's speed, alcohol, and narcotics as determining factors in the accident.
Johnsen was transported to the office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
Trooper Ford, of the Maryland State Police La Plata Barrack, is investigating with the assistance of the Maryland State Police CRASH Team. The investigation is continuing.