One Airlifted After 5-Car Pile-Up Reportedly Caused by Unoccupied Vehicle Left in Roadway

MECHANICSVILLE, Md. — A chaotic Mechanicsville multi-vehicle crash early Sunday morning resulted in one person being airlifted to a trauma center and the complete shutdown of southbound Three Notch Road. The five-car pile-up was reportedly caused by an unoccupied vehicle left parked in the middle of the roadway without its lights on.

The incident was reported on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at approximately 5:19 a.m., near the intersection of Three Notch Road and Clarkes Village Lane. According to emergency communications, two separate vehicles initially struck the unlit, stopped car, which subsequently led to a chain-reaction crash involving a total of five vehicles.

First responders assessed a total of six individuals on the scene. While four people refused medical treatment, two were transported for their injuries. One patient, a 42-year-old male, suffered critical injuries. Consequently, his condition deteriorated on scene to the point where he was reportedly no longer following commands and became combative, often a sign of a serious head injury.

Due to the severity of the 42-year-old’s condition, crews requested a medevac helicopter. Therefore, firefighters established a landing zone at Oakville Elementary School to facilitate the flyout to a regional trauma center. A 54-year-old was also reportedly transported by ground with chest pains.

The southbound lanes of Three Notch Road remained closed for an extended period as crews worked the scene and the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office began its investigation. In addition, the State Highway Administration was requested for the extensive debris cleanup. The investigation into why the unoccupied vehicle was left in the roadway is ongoing.

---

Got a tip or photo? Text us at 888-871-NEWS (6397) or email news@thebaynet.com.

Join The BayNet Membership for exclusive perks and zero ads.

Don’t miss a story—sign up for our newsletter!