ESSEX, Md. — A fatal multi-vehicle collision on the inner loop of Interstate 695 near Perring Parkway early Saturday morning claimed the life of 31-year-old Essex resident James Beckham and left another driver hospitalized, Maryland State Police reported.
The crash occurred shortly after 8:00 a.m. Investigators said Beckham, who was the sole occupant of a Nissan Sentra, struck the corner of a Toyota C-HR for reasons still under investigation. This initial impact triggered a chain reaction involving a Nissan Altima and a Toyota RAV4.
First Responders Rush to Chaotic Scene
First responders from the Maryland State Police Golden Ring Barrack, the Baltimore County Fire Department, and the Baltimore County Police Department worked swiftly at the scene to provide aid and secure the area amidst the wreckage.
Beckham was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The driver of the Nissan Altima, identified as 26-year-old Dante Summers of Nottingham, was transported by ambulance to a local hospital for treatment of his injuries. The drivers of the Toyota C-HR and Toyota RAV4, along with one passenger in the RAV4, were reported uninjured.
Extended Road Closure as Investigation Continues
The inner loop of I-695 was closed for several hours as the Maryland State Police Crash Team documented the scene and gathered evidence. All lanes were reopened by approximately 11:30 a.m. with the assistance of the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration.
The cause of the crash remains under active investigation. Authorities are working to determine the precise sequence of events that led to the tragic chain-reaction collision.
Community Mourns a Life Cut Short
The sudden loss of James Beckham has left his family, friends, and the Essex community heartbroken. At 31, he is remembered as a beloved son, family member, and friend whose absence leaves a profound void.
“James was more than a name in a police release,” a family friend shared. “He had a lifetime of memories ahead of him, and we will hold onto the kindness and laughter he brought into our lives.”
The investigation is ongoing.