WASHINGTON, D.C. — A 47-year-old man died late Tuesday night after being hit by two vehicles while attempting to secure a truck bed cover along the northbound lanes of DC-295, police confirmed.
The crash occurred at approximately 11:34 p.m. near the Pennsylvania Avenue Southeast exit. Officers from the Sixth District responded to the scene and found the pedestrian, identified as Edward Pearson of Southeast D.C., unconscious and not breathing. He was transported by DC Fire and EMS to a local hospital but was pronounced dead despite lifesaving efforts.
The preliminary investigation revealed that Pearson and the driver of a 2017 GMC Sierra pickup truck had pulled over on the highway due to an issue with the truck’s bed cover. Both exited the vehicle to address the problem when the incident unfolded.
According to detectives, a red 2005 Chrysler Sebring improperly merged from the I-695 on-ramp onto northbound DC-295, striking both the rear of the GMC and Pearson. Following the initial collision, a 2013 Toyota Avalon traveling northbound struck the GMC again and also hit Pearson, who was already in the roadway.
Both drivers remain on scene as crash investigation continues
Authorities stated that both drivers involved in the crash remained at the scene following the incident. The driver and passenger of the Chrysler were transported to local hospitals for minor injuries. No injuries were reported by the occupants of the Toyota.
The Metropolitan Police Department’s Major Crash Investigations Unit is leading the investigation into the fatal collision. Officials have not announced any charges as the investigation remains active.
Anyone with information regarding the incident is encouraged to contact the police at (202) 727-9099 or text tips anonymously to 50411.
Key Points
- Edward Pearson, 47, killed after being struck by two vehicles on DC-295 late Tuesday
- Crash occurred while Pearson and another person were securing a truck bed cover on the roadside
- Both involved drivers stayed at the scene; investigation remains ongoing