BLADENSBURG, Md. — A community is reeling after a horrific accident at a children’s birthday party on Saturday night left one person dead and 14 others injured, including eight children, when a vehicle crashed in reverse into a tent filled with guests. Authorities have identified the driver as 66-year-old Sunday Okedeyi Joseph, a Washington, D.C. resident, who fled the scene on foot before later turning himself in.
According to the Bladensburg Police Department, the tragedy unfolded just before 10:15 p.m. in the 5600 block of Quincy Street, where a family celebration was underway. Investigators say Sunday Joseph, while operating his vehicle in reverse, veered off the roadway and slammed into a tent set up in the front yard of the home. The impact was catastrophic — multiple victims were trapped beneath the vehicle as panicked witnesses rushed to help.
Among the victims was 31-year-old Ashley Hernandez Gutierrez, who was pronounced dead at the scene. Fourteen others were injured, including eight children ranging in age from 1 to 17 years old. Most of the injured victims have since been released from the hospital, though one child and two adults remain hospitalized as of Monday.
Bladensburg Acting Police Chief Daniel Frishkorn described the incident as “highly unusual,” noting that early findings suggest the crash was accidental and not intentional.
“This appears to have been a tragic accident and not a deliberate act,” Chief Frishkorn said. “We are still investigating whether factors such as alcohol or excessive speed played a role.”
A police officer on patrol nearby was among the first to respond after being flagged down by frantic witnesses. The officer, along with bystanders, helped lift the vehicle off several victims pinned underneath.
After the crash, Joseph fled the scene on foot, abandoning his car behind. Authorities launched a search, and he later turned himself in around 8 a.m. Sunday morning.
Sunday Okedeyi Joseph now faces multiple criminal charges, including:
- Criminally negligent manslaughter by vehicle
- Negligent manslaughter by automobile
- Failure to remain at the scene of an accident involving death
At a press conference Monday, Bladensburg Mayor Takisha James addressed the devastating loss and offered condolences to those affected.
“Please know that the town of Bladensburg is fully committed to ensuring that the individual responsible is held accountable to the fullest extent of the law,” Mayor James said. “To the victims who are still recovering, our thoughts and prayers are with you. We wish you strength, comfort, and complete healing — not only from your physical injuries but also from the emotional pain that accompanies such a traumatic experience.”
Residents in the tight-knit Bladensburg community have expressed shock and sadness, with many describing the incident as every parent’s worst nightmare. Neighbors have begun leaving flowers, toys, and candles near the site of the crash in honor of Ashley Hernandez Gutierrez and the injured children.
Police continue to investigate the circumstances leading up to the crash, including mechanical inspections of the vehicle and a review of Joseph’s driving history.
The Bladensburg Police Department is urging anyone who witnessed the crash or has additional information to contact investigators as they work to determine exactly how this tragedy unfolded.
Our hearts go out to the family of Ashley Hernandez Gutierrez and to all the victims of this devastating event. May the community find strength, healing, and peace in the days ahead.
