UPPER MARLBORO, Md. — A casket left on the side of a road in Upper Marlboro triggered confusion and alarm Thursday, prompting a swift response from Prince George’s County officials.
The coffin was discovered at the intersection of Bishops Bequest Road and Lords Landing Road, drawing immediate attention due to its unusual and unsettling nature. A maintenance worker inspected the casket and confirmed it was empty before reporting the find.
Prince George’s County Councilmember Calvin Hawkins personally responded to the scene after receiving a constituent call, ranking it among the most bizarre incidents ever reported in his district. County officials expressed concern about the potential for children or residents to come across the casket before removal teams arrived.
The Department of Public Works and Transportation removed the casket within an hour. Officials stated that funeral-related dumping is not only illegal but poses safety and public health concerns. The agency reminded residents that illegal dumping can carry penalties and will be investigated.
County workers described the abandoned casket as one of the strangest items they have been called to collect. A video of the removal was posted to the county’s official Instagram account, where it quickly circulated among residents.
The source of the casket remains unknown. County officials are investigating how it ended up on a public roadway and whether any criminal charges will follow.
