Dunkirk, Maryland Crash involving a two-vehicle collision has left the community grieving the death of Wanda K. Hartley, 68, who lost her life after a serious evening crash on Solomons Island Road near Lothian.
The incident happened on April 21, 2026, around 7:35 p.m. in the area of Solomons Island Road close to Ducks Lane. Police say the crash involved a Honda Accord and a Ford F-350 that was towing a dump trailer.
Investigators believe both vehicles were traveling southbound, with the Ford positioned behind the Honda. Reports indicate the Honda suddenly slowed down, and the Ford struck the rear and driver’s side of the car.
After the impact, both vehicles left the roadway and went into a wooded area nearby. The Honda continued forward and hit a tree head-on, causing severe damage.
Wanda K. Hartley, who lived in Dunkirk, was inside the Honda. She was rushed to a nearby hospital after the crash, but she did not survive her injuries and was later pronounced dead.
The driver of the Ford, a 39-year-old man from Chesapeake Beach, was present at the scene. He did not require medical treatment and declined further care from emergency responders.
Family and friends describe Wanda as a deeply loved member of her community. Her sudden passing has left a painful gap in the lives of those who knew her closely.
Authorities with the Anne Arundel County Police Crash Reconstruction Team are still working to understand exactly how the crash unfolded and what factors may have contributed to it.
