Two mothers killed in separate hit-and-runs on Maryland's dangerous highway

In Maryland, two tragic hit-and-run incidents occurred within 24 hours, highlighting the dangers faced by pedestrians in the region. The first incident took place on Thursday at approximately 9 PM on Highway 210, where 52-year-old Sandra Abarca Orellana was crossing the road to reach a nearby bus stop after shopping at the Tanger Outlets National Harbor Mall. She was struck by a vehicle, resulting in her death at the scene. The police reported that a burgundy, four-door sedan was seen heading north on Oxon Hill Road in connection with her hit-and-run. The next day, at 10 PM, 40-year-old Loretta Canter-Andrews was also struck and killed by a vehicle while walking in the northbound lanes of Route 210 near Farmington Road, less than 16 kilometers away from the first incident. Canter-Andrews also died at the scene, and police have not yet identified a vehicle related to her case. These incidents raise concerns about pedestrian safety in an area plagued by a high number of fatalities, particularly amongst pedestrians. As of 2024, Prince George's County has seen 21 pedestrian deaths, with 11 categorized as hit-and-runs. The deaths of Orellana and Canter-Andrews have left their families devastated, with reports indicating that Orellana's family is seeking justice for her untimely death, while Canter-Andrews’ son reflected on her caring nature and the emotional pain of the loss. The police are actively investigating both incidents as a call for increased awareness about pedestrian safety arises in response to these tragic events.