James Beckham Death – A fatal multi-vehicle collision on Interstate 695 in Baltimore County claimed the life of an Essex resident on Saturday morning, according to Maryland State Police. The crash occurred on the inner loop of the highway near the Perring Parkway area shortly after 8 a.m., prompting a large emergency response and significant traffic disruptions.
State troopers reported that the incident involved four vehicles traveling along the busy stretch of roadway. Emergency crews arrived to find extensive damage across multiple lanes. One of the drivers, a 31-year-old man from Essex, was transported to a nearby medical facility for treatment after first responders assessed the scene. Despite medical efforts, he later died from injuries sustained in the crash.
Preliminary findings indicate that the man had been driving alone in a compact sedan on the inner loop when his vehicle collided with the rear corner of another SUV. The initial impact set off a chain reaction, causing additional crashes involving two more vehicles traveling in the same direction. Authorities said the force of the collisions led to significant damage, though several occupants involved were fortunate to escape serious harm.
One additional driver, a 26-year-old man operating one of the vehicles involved, was taken to a hospital for medical evaluation. Officials did not release details regarding the extent of his injuries. The remaining drivers and a passenger traveling in one of the SUVs were not hurt and did not require hospital care, according to police.
The crash caused major traffic delays, as all lanes of the interstate were closed for more than three hours while investigators examined the scene and crews worked to clear debris. Motorists were advised to avoid the area during the closure, which led to congestion on surrounding roadways throughout the morning.
Maryland State Police crash investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances that led to the collision. Officials said they are reviewing vehicle positions, roadway conditions, and other contributing factors to determine how the series of impacts unfolded. No immediate cause has been confirmed, and the investigation remains ongoing.
The fatal crash is one of several serious incidents reported recently along Interstate 695. Earlier in the week, another deadly collision occurred when a woman was struck while attempting to assist a stranded motorist along the highway. That incident involved multiple vehicles and left two additional people injured. Authorities have indicated that impairment may have played a role in that case.
In a separate incident earlier this year, a high-speed crash on the beltway resulted in the deaths of three people, including two children. Investigators said the vehicle involved lost control after leaving the roadway and struck several objects before catching fire. That tragedy highlighted ongoing concerns about speeding and dangerous driving behaviors on major highways.
Transportation officials note that Interstate 695 continues to see heavy traffic volumes, increasing the risk of serious crashes. To address congestion and improve traffic flow, the state is currently carrying out a long-term construction project along the beltway. The effort includes infrastructure changes designed to ease peak-hour congestion and improve safety for motorists.
Authorities continue to urge drivers to remain alert, follow speed limits, and exercise caution, particularly in high-traffic areas or near construction zones. Investigators stress that even minor errors can have devastating consequences on busy roadways. As the latest investigation continues, officials are reminding the public that safe driving practices remain essential to preventing further loss of life on Maryland highways.
