Seven Killed on Virginia Roads Over 2025 Memorial Day Weekend
- BTW21
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Richmond, VA —(BTW21) Preliminary data released by the Virginia State Police reveals that seven individuals were killed in traffic crashes across the state during the 2025 Memorial Day holiday weekend, from Friday through Monday.
This marks a significant decrease compared to 2024, when 13 fatalities were reported. However, officials are cautioning that Virginians should remain vigilant, as there were 25 fatalities investigated in the week following Memorial Day last year.
The fatal crashes occurred in a variety of locations, spanning both rural counties and urban areas. Incidents were reported in Bedford, Buckingham, Caroline, Fauquier, and Spotsylvania counties, as well as the cities of Chesapeake and Virginia Beach.
One of the more disturbing incidents occurred in Bedford County, where a hit-and-run crash involving a bicycle and a second vehicle claimed a life.
The driver of the second vehicle fled the scene, and authorities are actively investigating the incident.
Another fatal crash occurred on Saturday on Interstate 95 in Spotsylvania County, where a motorcyclist lost their life in a collision.
Both cases highlight the variety of dangerous driving scenarios state troopers face on Virginia roads during busy travel periods.
Despite the decrease in fatalities compared to last year, Virginia State Police Superintendent Colonel Matthew D. Hanley emphasized the department's commitment to reducing traffic deaths. "Our goal remains to see a holiday weekend where there are no fatal crashes," said Colonel Hanley.
Virginia State Police deployed additional resources as part of the nationwide Operation C.A.R.E (Crash Awareness Reduction Effort) during the Memorial Day weekend. All available troopers and supervisors were on patrol, working to prevent crashes and enforce traffic laws.
During the holiday weekend, state police issued over 3,300 citations for speeding and more than 1,500 for reckless driving.
Additionally, 71 drivers were arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI/DUID), and 405 drivers were cited for violating Virginia’s “hands-free” phone law.
As part of the ongoing efforts to promote road safety, Virginia is also participating in the annual Click It or Ticket campaign, which focuses on seatbelt education and enforcement.
Over the Memorial Day weekend, law enforcement officers issued 506 citations for seatbelt violations and 122 for child restraint violations.
The revenue generated from these traffic summonses goes directly to court fees and the Virginia Literary Fund, which supports public school construction, technology funding, and teacher retirement.
Authorities are urging all Virginians to continue exercising caution on the road, especially as summer travel intensifies and more people take to Virginia's highways.
The state police remain committed to reducing traffic fatalities and ensuring safer roads for everyone.
For more information on road safety and the ongoing efforts of Virginia State Police, visit Virginia State Police website.