Tevin Burrell Obituary, Death – Authorities in Powhatan County are investigating a deadly crash that claimed the life of a pedestrian early Saturday morning. The incident occurred just after midnight on Dorset Road, roughly 200 feet south of Genito Road, according to local police reports.
Investigators said that a vehicle traveling south on Dorset Road struck a pedestrian who was standing in the southbound travel lane at the time. The pedestrian was later identified as 27-year-old Tevin Burrell. Emergency responders arrived quickly but pronounced Burrell dead at the scene due to the severity of his injuries. Police confirmed that his family was notified soon afterward.
The driver of the vehicle involved in the collision was identified as 36-year-old Edward Clayton Firestone II. Authorities said Firestone was wearing his seatbelt during the crash and was not hurt. Importantly, police noted that he stayed at the scene and cooperated with investigators. After conducting an initial assessment, officers determined that alcohol did not play a role in his driving, and as a result, no charges have been filed against him at this time.
However, investigators believe alcohol may have been a contributing factor for the pedestrian. Burrell was standing in an active travel lane when the collision occurred, a detail that police are carefully examining as they continue to piece together the circumstances leading to the tragedy. Toxicology reports are expected to provide further clarity.
The crash has prompted authorities to take a closer look at the conditions along Dorset Road, as well as other factors such as visibility, traffic flow, and lighting at the location. These details will be essential in determining the final findings of the investigation. Police also emphasized that the investigation is still ongoing and that further information may be released once more evidence is collected.
Pedestrian-related accidents are a persistent concern in rural and suburban roadways like those in Powhatan County. Standing or walking in travel lanes, especially late at night or in low-visibility conditions, significantly increases the risk of serious injury or death. In this case, Burrell’s presence in the southbound lane contributed directly to the fatal outcome, police said.
For now, the incident stands as a somber reminder of the dangers pedestrians face when near roadways, particularly outside of crosswalks or designated walking areas. Authorities urge both drivers and pedestrians to exercise heightened caution during nighttime hours, when visibility is naturally reduced.
While Firestone will not face immediate charges, the investigation remains active under the supervision of local law enforcement. Officers will continue gathering evidence, speaking with potential witnesses, and reviewing all available details before making any final determinations.
The community is left mourning the loss of Burrell, whose death adds to the growing toll of pedestrian fatalities on Virginia roads. Police say they are committed to completing a thorough investigation to ensure the circumstances of the crash are fully understood and to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
