RICHMOND, Va. – Seven people died in traffic crashes across Virginia during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, according to preliminary data from Virginia State Police, marking a reduction from 11 fatalities in 2023 and 19 in 2022.
The five-day period, which spanned from Nov. 27 through Dec. 1, saw seven separate fatal crashes in Bath, Culpeper, Page, Spotsylvania, Stafford, Warren, and Wythe counties. Among the incidents was an off-road ATV crash in Warren County on Thanksgiving Day. Only two of the victims in these crashes were confirmed to have been wearing seat belts, state police reported.
“Virginia State Police is pleased that we continue to see the number of fatalities decrease, although we want that number at zero,” said Lt. Col. Matt Hanley, interim superintendent of the Virginia State Police. “However, we still are seeing too many people not buckling up when they are in a vehicle. It can save lives.”
During the holiday, state troopers intensified enforcement efforts as part of Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort), a nationwide traffic safety initiative. Over the weekend, troopers issued 404 citations for seat belt violations and 116 for child restraint infractions. DUI arrests totaled 77, including one for driving under the influence of drugs, while over 3,600 drivers were cited for speeding and 1,700 for reckless driving.
Statewide, troopers responded to 1,182 crashes during the period, with 129 resulting in injuries. Officials reiterated the importance of safe driving practices and seat belt use to prevent further loss of life during the holiday season.
“Seven lives lost is a stark reminder that traffic safety must remain a priority for everyone on the road this holiday season,” state police emphasized.