6 construction workers killed after car crash on Baltimore highway
Six construction workers were killed after a single-car collision on the Baltimore Beltway interstate on Wednesday, according to Maryland State Police.
Officials have not identified any of the victims or the cause of the crash. All lanes of the road were closed in both directions for several hours as a result before partially reopening in the late afternoon.
According to the Baltimore Sun, the crash occurred after a grey Acura went over the median near a construction site around 12:40 p.m. Several construction workers were struck by the car before it flipped over. The driver was taken to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center in an unknown condition for treatment.
Six workers were pronounced dead at the scene. The identities of the victims and the driver were not released.
The state police are investigating the crash and notifying next of kin.
“It’s ridiculous. I came through here earlier today and I know there was a lot of people working in that exact spot where that car is,” Monroe Bradford, a driver, told WBAL TV. “You go out there for a day’s work and then you don’t know what’s going to happen. The way people have been driving, even with construction, they still think it’s a raceway.”
The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration said traffic was backed up three miles.
“On behalf of all the residents of Baltimore County, we offer our sincere condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of those who have lost their lives in today’s tragic crash and my prayers remain with those injured in this horrific incident,” Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski wrote on Twitter.
“My heart goes out to the victims and the families affected by the tragic crash on the 695 beltway this afternoon,” Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said in a statement.
The crash was also expected to affect schools in the area and lead to extended traffic delays.
“We will work as quickly as possible to transport students safely this afternoon,” Baltimore County Public School System said.
