Heightened military and police presence on Interstate 695 near the U.S. Capitol has raised questions among eyewitnesses, with some suggesting the incident may not have been entirely accidental.
Conflicting early reports about the location and circumstances have prompted investigators to explore whether this was a routine accident or a targeted event.
Officer Critically Injured on I-695
Multiple law enforcement agencies and the National Guard were deployed along I-695, roughly half a mile from the Capitol, following urgent calls reporting an “officer down.”
Witnesses described a tense scene as the injured officer, initially unresponsive, was carefully placed into a police cruiser and rushed to the hospital amid flashing lights and sirens that brought traffic to a halt.
Eyewitness Accounts
According to social media reports, the officer had been assisting a disabled motorist in the eastbound lanes when a vehicle struck him. Observers described chaos on the roadway as police, emergency medical personnel, and National Guard members converged on the scene. Traffic was diverted while authorities secured the area and blocked access to a nearby tunnel.
Officer’s Condition
The officer remained unconscious at the scene and received immediate care from colleagues before being transported for emergency treatment. While official updates are limited, sources confirm the officer sustained serious injuries and remains under intensive care. Community members and fellow officers have called for prayers and support for his recovery.
Traffic Disruption
The crash forced authorities to close all eastbound lanes of I-695 just past the I-395/Third Street Tunnel, causing major congestion for late-night commuters. Officials confirmed that the driver involved stayed at the scene and was hospitalized with minor injuries. The disabled motorist the officer had been assisting was unharmed.
Ongoing Investigation
Early confusion over the exact location fueled widespread speculation online, with some posts incorrectly stating the incident occurred directly adjacent to federal grounds. Police are conducting a thorough investigation to determine factors such as vehicle speed, visibility, and potential negligence. Authorities have emphasized that more details will be released as the investigation progresses.
Conclusion
This incident underscores the risks law enforcement officers face even during routine duties. As investigators work to clarify the sequence of events, the focus remains on the officer’s recovery, the safety of motorists, and a careful, transparent assessment of how such accidents can be prevented in the future.