x
Breaking News
More () »

Tow truck driver hit and killed while helping car on side of road

The vehicle that fled the scene has been located, but the identity of the driver is still under investigation.

TEMPLE HILLS, Md. — Maryland State police are investigating a hit-and-run crash that killed a tow truck driver in Temple Hills, Maryland on Nov. 6. Police located the vehicle involved in the crash, a 2004 white Cadillac Escalade, at Maryland Route 3 and Route 175 in Anne Arundel County on Nov. 11. 

The identity of the driver is pending further investigation, but police identified the tow truck driver who was killed as 63-year-old Reinerio Pineda Alvarez of D.C. 

Police said around 10:30 p.m. troopers were called to the area of southbound Branch Avenue and Coventry Way for the report of a deadly pedestrian crash.

Upon investigation, police learned that Alvarez was loading a disabled car on the shoulder when he was struck while walking towards his truck. Police believe that the tow truck's flashing yellow lights were activated when the Cadillac Escalade struck the disabled vehicle on the driver side mirror before striking Alvarez and possibly the tow truck. 

Police said Alvarez was pronounced dead at the scene by Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department personnel.

Police said that this incident further highlights the importance of highlights the importance of motorists to adhere to Maryland’s "Move Over" laws. From 2014 to 2018, more than 3,400 people were injured, and 46 people were killed in work zone crashes in Maryland.

The investigation is still ongoing. Maryland State Police are asking anyone with information regarding this incident to call 301-568-8101. 

RELATED: Pedestrian struck, killed by police cruiser in Fairfax County Sunday

RELATED: Arrest made in fatal Laurel, MD hit and run

RELATED: Police: Bicyclist killed by hit-and-run driver in Prince George's County

Download the brand new WUSA9 app here.

Sign up for the Get Up DC newsletter: Your forecast. Your commute. Your news.

Before You Leave, Check This Out