Martinsburg, WV (March 14, 2025) – A devastating multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 81 in Martinsburg claimed two lives and left two others injured Wednesday afternoon.
According to state police, the accident occurred just after 4:30 p.m. south of the Apple Harvest Drive exit. Investigators determined that a Dodge truck, driven by 64-year-old Steven Souders of Warfordsburg, Pennsylvania, was traveling north when it crossed the median into the southbound lanes. The truck collided with another Dodge truck driven by 59-year-old David Cain of Kernersville, North Carolina, before continuing and striking a Ford truck driven by 33-year-old Ronnie Dick of Inwood.
The impact caused Dick’s vehicle to overturn. Both Souders and Dick suffered fatal injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene. Cain sustained minor injuries, while his passenger, 63-year-old Catherine Cain, was airlifted to Inova Hospital in Fairfax, Virginia, for treatment. She was last reported to be in stable condition.
The southbound lanes of I-81 were shut down for nearly six hours as authorities conducted their investigation. Police have not yet determined what caused Souders’ vehicle to veer into oncoming traffic.
Our thoughts go out to the families of the victims, and we wish the injured a full recovery.
Highway Accidents in West Virginia
Crashes on major highways like I-81 can have devastating consequences, especially when vehicles cross medians into oncoming traffic. Common causes of these types of accidents include driver fatigue, medical emergencies, adverse road conditions, and vehicle malfunctions.
Fatal crashes often leave families facing emotional and financial burdens, including medical expenses and funeral costs. Ongoing investigations help determine the cause of these incidents and identify any contributing factors.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a serious highway accident, knowing your legal options can be crucial. At Local Accident Reports, we provide resources and support for victims and their families. Contact us today to learn more about what steps to take after a fatal crash.
