Darlene Platt Obituary, Death Cause – Authorities in Anne Arundel County are investigating a tragic traffic incident that resulted in the passing of a local resident in Severn on Tuesday evening. According to a statement from the Anne Arundel County Police Department, officers were called around 6:55 p.m. on October 21 to the area of northbound Telegraph Road and Denson Road following reports of a collision involving a Ford Bronco and a pedestrian.
Investigators said that the Ford Bronco was traveling north in the second lane of Telegraph Road when the pedestrian began crossing from the median toward the eastbound side of the roadway. The driver later told police that they did not notice the individual until she appeared directly in front of the vehicle, leaving little time to react. The vehicle made contact with the pedestrian and came to a stop shortly after.
Emergency responders, including members of the county’s Fire Department and the Traffic Safety Reconstruction Team, arrived at the scene within minutes. Despite their efforts, the pedestrian was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Authorities later identified the woman as 75-year-old Darlene Platt of Severn. Police have not released the name of the driver involved but confirmed that he is a 45-year-old man from Glen Burnie. No citations or charges have been announced at this stage as the investigation continues.
Police said the area was temporarily closed while crash investigators worked to gather evidence and document the scene. Members of the Traffic Safety Reconstruction Team conducted measurements, reviewed roadway conditions, and interviewed witnesses to determine the sequence of events that led to the collision.
While authorities have not publicly confirmed whether speed, lighting, or other environmental factors played a role, they emphasized the importance of driver alertness and pedestrian safety, particularly during the evening hours when visibility tends to decrease.
Residents in the Severn area expressed concern about pedestrian safety along Telegraph Road, noting that the stretch between Denson Road and nearby intersections can be challenging to cross due to traffic volume. Some said the road lacks sufficient pedestrian crossings or lighting, which may increase risks during nighttime hours.
Community members have extended condolences to the family and loved ones of Darlene Platt, describing her as a kind and friendly neighbor who was well known in the Severn community. Friends said she had lived in the area for many years and was often seen walking nearby.
Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has additional information to contact the Anne Arundel County Police Department’s Traffic Safety Section at 410-222-8573. Investigators are reviewing all available evidence, including possible surveillance footage from nearby businesses or homes, to understand what happened in the moments leading up to the crash.
Authorities also reminded the public that both drivers and pedestrians share responsibility for road safety. They urged pedestrians to use marked crosswalks whenever possible and wear reflective clothing or carry lights when walking at night. Drivers are also being encouraged to remain alert, especially in residential and mixed-use areas.
As of now, the investigation remains ongoing, and officials said updates will be shared once more information becomes available. The Anne Arundel County Police Department extended its sympathies to the family of Ms. Platt and thanked the community for its cooperation and support during the investigation.
The incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of caution on busy roads, particularly during low-light conditions. Local authorities continue to stress that even a momentary lapse in attention — for either a driver or a pedestrian — can have devastating consequences.
