Prince George’s County, MD (August 19, 2025) – A tragic accident on Interstate 495 claimed the life of a Washington, D.C. woman on Monday afternoon after a loose tire from another vehicle struck her car. Maryland State Police responded to the fatal crash around 1:50 PM on August 18 near Medical Center Drive in Prince George’s County.
According to investigators, the back driver-side tire of a northbound Dodge Ram 1500 detached from the truck and traveled across the median into the southbound lanes. The runaway tire struck another vehicle driven by 59-year-old Tammy Lynn Edwards, causing her car to veer out of control, hit a concrete barrier, and crash into a guardrail.
Emergency personnel arrived to find Edwards severely injured. Despite their efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene. The occupants of the Dodge Ram were not hurt in the incident.
Authorities have not released further information regarding the condition of the Dodge Ram or whether mechanical failure or negligence played a role. Maryland State Police confirmed the crash remains under active investigation.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Tammy Lynn Edwards during this time of profound loss.
Deadly Debris-Related Crashes in Maryland
Accidents caused by mechanical failure or flying debris, like the tragic incident on I-495, are often unforeseeable and devastating. Loose tires, in particular, can become deadly projectiles at highway speeds. In this case, the outcome was heartbreaking, claiming the life of an innocent driver through no fault of her own.
Tire separation incidents are typically the result of mechanical neglect, improper installation, or equipment failure. When a tire detaches from a vehicle, especially a heavy-duty truck like a Dodge Ram, it can cause catastrophic damage to anything in its path. Interstate 495, one of Maryland’s busiest beltways, leaves little room for evasive action when unexpected hazards arise.
For southbound drivers like Tammy Lynn Edwards, there would have been virtually no time to react. High-speed impacts combined with sudden loss of control often result in fatal consequences. This type of accident underscores the importance of rigorous vehicle maintenance and regular inspections, especially for commercial and heavy-duty vehicles.
Maryland law places a duty of care on all vehicle operators to ensure their cars are safe for public roads. When mechanical failure results in loss of life, questions often follow about liability, preventative measures, and whether the tragedy could have been avoided. Investigations like this one are critical in providing clarity to families and preventing future occurrences.
If you or someone you know has been impacted by a tragic incident like the one involving Tammy Lynn Edwards, Local Accident Reports is here to support you. We offer timely updates and compassionate guidance to help families navigate the aftermath of fatal accidents. Reach out today for the resources and direction you need.
