RICHMOND, VA—Virginia roads witnessed a distressing increase in traffic fatalities over the Memorial Day weekend in 2024, with eleven deaths reported across various counties, up from nine during the same period in 2023. Among the fatalities were two double-fatality incidents in Goochland and Henry Counties.
The fatal incidents spanned across Craig, Dinwiddie, Fairfax, Franklin, Goochland, and Henry counties, along with the cities of Hampton and Lynchburg. Specific tragic events included a head-on collision in Goochland County and a single-vehicle crash in Henry County, each resulting in two fatalities. Additionally, a motorcyclist lost their life in Lynchburg, and a pedestrian was fatally struck in Fairfax County.
Colonel Gary T. Settle, Superintendent of Virginia State Police, emphasized the urgency of safer driving practices. “Eleven people is far too many lives lost,” stated Colonel Settle. He urged motorists to adhere to speed limits, use seat belts, avoid driving under the influence, and eliminate distractions.
During the holiday weekend, Virginia State Police increased patrols as part of Operation C.A.R.E (Crash Awareness Reduction Effort), a nationwide initiative aimed at reducing crashes. Enforcement efforts led to over 3,500 speeding citations, more than 1,400 charges for reckless driving, and 92 DUI arrests. Additionally, 303 drivers were cited for violating Virginia’s hands-free law.
The Click It or Ticket campaign also saw significant enforcement activity, with 535 seatbelt violations and 112 citations for improper child restraints.
Fines collected from these violations contribute to court fees and the state’s Literary Fund, which supports public school construction, technology funding, and teacher retirement. The heightened vigilance of state police underscores a continuing commitment to enhancing road safety and reducing holiday weekend tragedies.