Chief Magaw Provides Update on Fatal Departmental Crash

Prince George’s County Police Chief Mark Magaw provided new details this morning in the investigation of the car crash that killed Police Officer First Class Kevin Bowden on October 18, 2012.

The preliminary investigation reveals the actions of the driver of the SUV involved in the crash caused the collision. The driver had been in a left turn lane on Branch Avenue at Surratts Road in Clinton. At some point, the driver made the decision to cross several lanes of traffic, colliding with POFC Bowden’s cruiser. Investigators are looking at all factors involved in the crash, including speed. Based on physical evidence on the scene, it appears POFC Bowden was driving above the speed limit. The exact speed is not known at this point. We have confirmed POFC Bowden was not wearing his seat belt. He was off-duty at the time of the crash. The driver of the second vehicle is at a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Branch Avenue and Surratts Road is a busy intersection. While investigators have spoken with many witnesses already, they’d like to hear from any others who may have information about the collision. Please call 866-411-TIPS.

POFC Bowden was 28 years old. He was born in Clinton and called Clinton home. He graduated from Surrattsville High School and has two children, ages 11 and five. POFC Bowden worked at District IV for six years. His service to the community and dedication to his fellow officers will always be remembered. Funeral services for POFC Bowden are not finalized.