UPPER MARLBORO, Md. — A tragic collision Monday night along Route 301 in Prince George’s County has left a Maryland family grieving and sparked serious questions, as authorities confirmed that one of the drivers involved was an off-duty Prince George’s County police officer.
Carlton Herndon, 56, of Clinton, Maryland, was killed in the crash, which occurred on the northbound side of Route 301 at Missouri Avenue. According to Maryland State Police (MSP), Herndon was attempting to cross the highway in his Nissan Maxima when he was struck by a Ford F-250 truck.
The driver of that truck was later identified as Anthony Coleman, 34, of Upper Marlboro—a police officer with the Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD). Coleman was off duty at the time of the crash.
Preliminary investigations by MSP suggest that speed and alcohol may have been contributing factors on the part of Coleman. While he refused medical treatment at the scene, Herndon tragically died from his injuries before first responders could transport him.
The incident is now under active investigation by Maryland State Police, with support from PGPD’s Internal Affairs Division. No charges have been filed at this time, but officials say they are working diligently to determine the full circumstances surrounding the crash.
The Prince George’s County community is reeling from the loss, and loved ones of Carlton Herndon are calling for transparency and justice as the investigation unfolds. More updates are expected as authorities continue to piece together what led to the fatal collision.
