Traffic Fatality: Interstate 295 Southbound Prior to Exits 1B and 1C

Monday, May 1, 2023

Detectives from the Metropolitan Police Department's Major Crash Unit are investigating a traffic fatality that occurred on Monday, May 1, 2023, on Interstate 295 Southbound Prior to Exits 1B and 1C.

The preliminary investigation revealed that at approximately 3:18 a.m., a silver 2001 Toyota Corolla was parked on the left shoulder with the vehicle’s hazard lights activated for what appeared to be mechanical issues on Interstate 295 South prior to exit 1B and 1C. The owner/pedestrian of the Toyota was standing outside of the vehicle and on its passenger side when he was struck by an unknown vehicle. The striking vehicle fled the scene. DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services responded to the scene and after finding no signs consistent with life, the victim remained on the scene until transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

The decedent has been identified as 30-year-old Rhyes Patrick-James Harris, of Alexandria, VA.

The striking vehicle has been described as possibly being a 1999 to 2003 Ford Windstar minivan, however the color is unknown. The vehicle may have a broken windshield and a missing driver’s side headlamp. Photos of a similar model vehicle, not the actual vehicle, can be seen below:

Anyone who has knowledge of this incident should call police at (202) 727-9099 or text your tip to the Department’s TEXT TIP LINE at 50411.