Cynthia Diggs Obituary, Death – A tragic collision on Route 288 in Goochland County claimed the life of a woman late Saturday night, prompting an ongoing investigation by Virginia State Police. Troopers were dispatched at 10:42 p.m. on September 20 to the scene of a two-vehicle crash along the southbound lanes of Route 288, near Tuckahoe Creek Parkway. The investigation so far indicates that one vehicle was traveling northbound in the southbound lanes after crossing the grassy median. That vehicle collided head-on with another car traveling southbound.
The driver of the southbound vehicle was identified as 65-year-old Cynthia Diggs of Maidens, Virginia. Authorities confirmed that she died at the scene of the crash.
A passenger in Diggs’ vehicle sustained injuries in the collision and was taken to VCU Medical Center for treatment. Officials have not provided specific details about the nature or severity of the passenger’s injuries.
The driver of the wrong-way vehicle, along with a passenger, were also transported to VCU Medical Center for medical care. Their conditions have not yet been released, and authorities have not indicated whether impairment, distraction, or another factor may have contributed to the driver’s actions.
The crash led to major traffic disruptions on Route 288. The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) reported that all southbound lanes of the highway were closed immediately after the wreck to allow first responders to secure the scene and assist the victims. The lanes remained shut down for several hours before reopening around 3:45 a.m. on Sunday morning.
State Police emphasized that the cause of the crash remains under active investigation. They have not yet confirmed why the northbound vehicle crossed over into the southbound side of the roadway. Investigators will continue examining all potential factors, including road conditions, driver behavior, and whether any charges may be forthcoming.
The sudden loss of Cynthia Diggs has deeply affected her local community in Maidens, where she was known as a longtime resident. While officials have not released further information about her background or family, the circumstances surrounding the crash highlight the devastating consequences of wrong-way driving incidents, which frequently result in severe or fatal outcomes.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the collision or observed the northbound vehicle before the crash to come forward with information that could help the investigation.
Head-on collisions remain among the most dangerous types of crashes due to the combined force of two vehicles traveling toward one another at high speeds. Safety experts often stress the importance of vigilance, especially at night, when wrong-way driving incidents are more likely to occur.
As the investigation continues, Virginia State Police and local officials are expected to provide further updates regarding the condition of the surviving victims and whether charges will be filed against the driver responsible for crossing into the opposing lanes.
For now, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly lives can be altered by a single mistake on the roadway.
