COLLEGE PARK, MD — In the early hours of Friday morning, July 25, 2025, a tragic single-vehicle crash on the ramp connecting southbound Interstate 95 to southbound Interstate 495 claimed the life of 46-year-old Kenneth Bowie Jr. of La Plata, Maryland.
According to Maryland State Police, troopers from the College Park Barrack were dispatched shortly after 3:20 a.m. following reports of a crash and vehicle fire. Upon arriving at the scene, troopers discovered a Lincoln MKZ fully engulfed in flames, resting at the bottom of a ravine near the interchange in Prince George’s County.
Emergency personnel from the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department responded swiftly but tragically pronounced Kenneth Bowie Jr. deceased at the scene. He was the sole occupant of the vehicle.
Preliminary Findings
A preliminary investigation revealed that the Lincoln MKZ had veered off the roadway, striking both a guardrail and an abutment before careening down into a ravine where it caught fire. The impact and resulting fire destroyed much of the vehicle, complicating recovery efforts at the crash site.
The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration was called to assist with road closures and to provide traffic management while first responders secured the scene and conducted their investigation.
Ongoing Investigation
The Maryland State Police Crash Team is leading the investigation into the cause of the accident. At this time, no contributing factors have been definitively identified, and authorities have not released information regarding possible speed, weather, mechanical failure, or impairment. Investigators will be reviewing crash data, surveillance footage from nearby traffic cameras, and vehicle records to piece together the moments leading up to the fatal incident.
State police emphasized that this appears to be a single-vehicle crash, and no other vehicles or individuals were involved.
Community Grieves Loss of Kenneth Bowie Jr.
News of Kenneth Bowie Jr.’s untimely passing has sent waves of grief through his community in La Plata, where he was known as a kind-hearted individual with deep roots and enduring friendships. Friends, family, and colleagues are remembering him as a man of strong character, generosity, and a warm personality that left an impression on everyone he met.
“He was the kind of person who would help anyone without thinking twice,” said one friend. “His passing leaves a void in all of our lives.”
Support has been pouring in for the Bowie family, and local churches and organizations have begun coordinating efforts to provide assistance and comfort during this time of mourning.
Safety Reminders
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that can arise at high-speed highway interchanges, especially during overnight hours when visibility is reduced and road conditions may be more hazardous. Authorities continue to urge motorists to exercise caution, reduce speed when approaching ramps and curves, and remain alert behind the wheel at all times.
Final Arrangements Pending
Funeral arrangements for Kenneth Bowie Jr. are currently being planned by his family, with details expected to be announced in the coming days. The community is encouraged to keep the Bowie family in their thoughts and prayers as they navigate this profound loss.
As the investigation continues, anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has relevant information is urged to contact the Maryland State Police College Park Barrack.
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