LUSBY, Maryland – Fatal Multi-Vehicle Crash on Solomons Island Road Claims Life of Elderly Silver Spring Resident

LUSBY, Md. — A tragic crash in Lusby has left one person dead and several others injured following a chain-reaction collision Friday afternoon. Authorities confirmed that 95-year-old Hollis Clinton Ruoff Jr. of Silver Spring lost his life in the accident, which involved multiple vehicles on Solomons Island Road.

The incident occurred on August 15, 2025, at approximately 3:49 p.m., prompting an immediate response from deputies with the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Bureau. Due to the severity of the crash, the Sheriff’s Office Crash Reconstruction Unit was called to the scene to investigate. Emergency responders worked quickly to assist those injured and secure the area for safety.

According to the preliminary investigation, the crash began when a 2004 Honda Civic traveling southbound collided with several vehicles near the intersection of Route 4 and Coster Road. The impact set off a chain reaction, leaving multiple cars damaged and resulting in injuries to several drivers and passengers.

Emergency medical teams transported those hurt to nearby hospitals for treatment. The extent of their injuries has not yet been released, but officials confirmed that multiple people required urgent medical attention. Tragically, despite the swift response of first responders, Hollis Clinton Ruoff Jr. was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Authorities closed the southbound lanes of Solomons Island Road for several hours while investigators examined the site of the crash. Traffic was rerouted through surrounding roads, causing significant delays for evening commuters. Drivers were urged to avoid the area until the roadway was fully cleared later that evening.

The Sheriff’s Office emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing, with accident reconstruction specialists analyzing vehicle positions, roadway conditions, and potential contributing factors such as speed or driver error. Witness statements are being collected to provide a clearer picture of how the multi-vehicle crash unfolded.

News of the tragedy has shaken both Silver Spring, where Ruoff was from, and the Lusby community. At 95 years old, Ruoff was remembered by neighbors and friends as a resilient and cherished member of his community. His passing has left loved ones mourning the sudden and heartbreaking loss.

Community members have expressed sympathy for all those involved in the accident, especially those recovering from injuries. Local leaders urged drivers to exercise greater caution on Route 4, which has seen several serious accidents in recent years. Many residents have called for further safety measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Counseling and support services are being offered to those directly affected by the crash. Local churches and organizations are also extending their assistance to the families impacted, highlighting the community’s commitment to supporting one another in times of hardship.

As investigators continue to work toward answers, the loss of Hollis Clinton Ruoff Jr. serves as a painful reminder of the fragility of life. The community of Lusby mourns deeply while rallying around the injured, hoping for their recovery and honoring the memory of a life well-lived.