On Saturday, September 28, 2024, Maryland State Police (MSP) Troopers from the La Plata Barrack responded to a serious motor vehicle collision on Maryland Route 488 at Grant Chapman Road. The tragic accident, which claimed the life of a 24-year-old motorcyclist, has led to an ongoing investigation by authorities, including the MSP CRASH Team.
Crash Overview
According to preliminary findings, the accident occurred at approximately 4:33 p.m. Luke Robert Vandegrift of Nanjemoy, Maryland, was identified as the victim. He was operating a Suzuki GSXR-1000 motorcycle eastbound on Maryland Route 488 at a high speed when the crash occurred. At the same time, 41-year-old Anthony Lacefield of La Plata, Maryland, was driving a Ram 1500 truck and making a left turn from Grant Chapman Road onto westbound Route 488. The Suzuki motorcycle collided with the side of the Ram 1500, causing the truck to spin nearly 180 degrees.
Scene of the Accident
Upon impact, Mr. Vandegrift was thrown from his motorcycle and was pronounced dead at the scene. Multiple 911 callers reported the collision, with one call stating that an off-duty firefighter was on site and performing CPR before emergency responders arrived. First responders confirmed the continuation of CPR, but Mr. Vandegrift’s injuries were too severe, and he succumbed to them shortly after the crash.
The driver of the Ram 1500, Anthony Lacefield, refused medical treatment at the scene. Fortunately, no further injuries were reported in connection with the incident.
Ghost Gun Discovery
During the investigation, a Polymer 80 handgun, also referred to as a “ghost gun,” was discovered on Mr. Vandegrift’s person. Ghost guns are unregistered firearms that are typically assembled from parts and lack serial numbers, making them difficult to trace. The presence of this unregistered weapon has added another layer of complexity to the investigation. Authorities are working to determine its origin and whether it played any role in the circumstances leading up to the crash.
Investigation and Contributing Factors
The MSP CRASH Team is investigating the incident, with speed and possible driver error being considered contributing factors. The Suzuki motorcycle was reportedly traveling at a high rate of speed, which likely played a significant role in the fatal outcome of the crash. The investigation is still in its early stages, and investigators are working to piece together all the facts.
Public Assistance Requested
Authorities are urging any witnesses who may have seen the crash or have additional information to come forward. Sergeant J. Zimmerman from the MSP CRASH Team is leading the investigation and can be reached at (301) 392-1231. Individuals can also submit statements via email at justin.zimmerman@maryland.gov. Every piece of information, no matter how minor it may seem, could be valuable in determining the full picture of what occurred.
Road Closures and Community Impact
Following the crash, La Plata Road remained closed for an extended period as police conducted their investigation. The closure significantly impacted traffic in the area, with authorities advising motorists to seek alternate routes until the road was cleared.
The local community has been left in shock by the tragic accident. Motorcycle accidents are often among the most severe types of traffic incidents due to the limited protection offered to riders, and the death of a young resident like Mr. Vandegrift has added to the somber mood.
Ongoing Investigation
As the investigation continues, updates will be provided by the Maryland State Police. Authorities are committed to determining the exact circumstances that led to this tragic loss of life and ensuring that all factors are considered in the final report.