A somber atmosphere has settled over Charles County as the Maryland State Police launch a full investigation into a fatal pedestrian crash that occurred in the early hours of Wednesday morning. Authorities have confirmed that 45-year-old Kory Branson of Bryans Road, Maryland, tragically lost his life in the incident that has left his family, friends, and the entire community in deep mourning.
According to preliminary reports from the Maryland State Police La Plata Barrack, the collision occurred at approximately 4:10 a.m. on Route 210 (Indian Head Highway) in the area of Livingston Road, a stretch of roadway known for having experienced pedestrian-related accidents in the past. Emergency responders arrived at the scene promptly after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting a person struck on the roadway. Upon their arrival, the severity of the situation became clear.
Kory Branson, believed to have been walking along or attempting to cross the highway at the time of the collision, was tragically pronounced dead at the scene by Charles County EMS personnel. The driver of the vehicle involved, whose identity has not been publicly disclosed, remained at the scene and is cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation. At this time, no charges have been filed, as authorities are awaiting the results of forensic analysis and traffic reconstruction assessments.
Kory Branson was a lifelong resident of Bryans Road, a small community that he held dear. He was known to those around him as a kindhearted individual who always put others first. Whether it was through volunteering his time to help neighbors or mentoring local youth, Kory’s actions spoke volumes about the depth of his character. He was a beloved figure in his community, and the loss of such a compassionate person has left a profound void in the hearts of many.
“Kory always put others before himself,” said a grieving relative. “His loss is not just ours—it’s the community’s.” Friends and family fondly remember Kory for his love of music and nature, which reflected his quiet yet vibrant soul. He had a deep connection to his roots and valued the close-knit relationships he built over the years. The news of his untimely death has reverberated throughout the town, with many struggling to come to terms with the loss of such a genuine and loving person.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash is ongoing. Maryland State Police’s CRASH Team, along with troopers from the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division and local deputies from the Charles County Sheriff’s Office, are working diligently to piece together the sequence of events that led to the tragic incident. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses and physical evidence from the scene are being analyzed to help determine the exact cause.
The area surrounding the crash site was temporarily closed for several hours, creating traffic delays during the early morning commute. Law enforcement has assured the public that they are doing everything in their power to investigate thoroughly, but authorities have yet to rule out any contributing factors, including lighting conditions, visibility, or the speed of the vehicle. Toxicology screenings for both the victim and driver are standard in cases like this and are pending results from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore.
This devastating event has not only shaken Kory’s family and friends but has also prompted renewed calls for improved pedestrian infrastructure in the area. Route 210, a major commuter corridor, is known for its high-speed traffic, and many residents and advocacy groups are advocating for better lighting, clearer signage, and more clearly marked crosswalks to prevent future tragedies. The lack of proper pedestrian safety measures has been a concern in the community for some time, and Kory’s passing has brought the issue to the forefront.
Local community members, too, have expressed their concern and frustration over the situation. “This should not have happened,” said one resident. “Our streets need to be safer for everyone, and something needs to be done to prevent these kinds of tragedies.” The call for change has only grown louder in the wake of Kory’s death, as people in the community recognize that action is needed to protect pedestrians and ensure safer roads for all.
In response to the tragedy, the community is coming together to honor Kory’s memory and offer support to his grieving family. A vigil is being planned in his honor, where friends, family, and neighbors will gather to reflect on his life and share their memories. The vigil will serve as a powerful reminder of the impact Kory had on those around him and the lasting legacy of kindness, generosity, and compassion he leaves behind.
Kory Branson is survived by his mother, two sisters, a niece, and a host of cousins and close friends. His family has requested privacy during this incredibly difficult time, and funeral arrangements are currently being made. The details of the memorial service will be announced shortly, allowing the community to pay their respects and say goodbye to the man who touched so many lives with his warmth and generosity.
While the investigation into the crash continues, the impact of Kory’s loss will forever be felt in the town of Bryans Road and beyond. This tragic accident serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of safety measures to protect pedestrians on our roads. As the community mourns, there is a collective hope that Kory’s passing will not be in vain—that the necessary changes will be made to improve pedestrian safety and prevent further senseless loss of life.
In the days to come, Kory’s family and friends will hold on to the cherished memories of a man who always put others first. His legacy of kindness, love, and selflessness will continue to inspire those who knew him. Though he is no longer with us, Kory’s spirit will live on in the hearts of everyone whose life he touched.
As the investigation unfolds, residents and visitors alike are urged to stay vigilant and to support the efforts to ensure that similar tragedies do not occur again. Kory Branson may be gone, but his memory will never fade, and his life will continue to be a beacon of light in the community that he so deeply loved.
