The crash happened about 1 p.m. at mile post 159 on Interstate 95, just north of Prince William Parkway, and forced the closure of the highway for more than an hour Monday afternoon.
At all started when a white Mercedes driven by Thanh Tam Thi Phan, 39, of Woodbridge, broke down in the right shoulder of the highway, said VSP spokeswoman Corinne Geller.
A Toyota 4-Runner, driven by Thi Hung Nguyen, 41, then pulled over to help the broken-down motorist.
While both cars were on the side of the road, an approaching silver Toyota Corolla sideswiped the two cars, said Geller.
At 1:27 p.m., VSP trooper E.D. Brown Jr., 30, was called to the scene to investigate the crash between the three cars.
Shortly after he arrived, a Toyota Tundra pickup driven by Thi Phan’s husband, Dunhill Nguyen, 39, of Woodbridge, arrived on the scene and parked in front of the Brown’s patrol car.
Less than 15 minutes later, the driver of a Dodge Neon slowed as she approached the scene of the crash, but the driver of a tractor-trailer behind her failed to slow and then slammed into the Neon.
The driver of the Neon then lost control and hit the trooper’s car, subsequently hitting Trooper Brown – who was standing at the rear of his patrol car, said Geller.
The impact of the crash caused Trooper Brown’s car to move forward, pinning the driver and passenger of Toyota Corolla involved in the initial crash, as well the driver of the Toyota Tundra, into the guardrail.
All three victims were also standing outside their vehicles, said Geller.
Meanwhile, the driver of the tractor trailer who failed to stop then swerved to the left and struck another tractor trailer, and then rear-ended a black Toyota Camry.
The driver of the striking tractor trailer and the driver of the black Toyota Camry stopped and remained on the scene, but police are still looking for the second tractor-trailer involved in the crash, said Geller.
Trooper Brown and Thi Hung Nguyen were flown to Fairfax Inova Hospital with injuries that did not appear to be life threatening.
The drivers and passengers of the Toyota Corolla and Dodge Neon were taken by ambulance to Potomac Hospital with injuries that did not appear to be life threatening, said Geller.
The tractor-trailer driver who stayed on the scene, Donnell Hendricks, 52, of North Carolina, has been charged with reckless driving for failure to maintain control due to inadequate brakes, said Geller. He was not injured.
Officials said Trooper Brown’s injuries are serious but not life threatening, forcing him to remain in the hospital overnight.
Brown graduated from the State Police Academy in Richmond in 2003 and has been assigned to Prince William County since 2004.
The crash remains under investigation.
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A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and
