Police vehicle during investigation - File Photo

STERLING, Va. — In a tragic incident on Sunday morning, a Maryland woman lost her life after being run over by her own car during a carjacking in Sterling, Virginia. The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office reported the incident occurred in the area of 21000 Towncenter Plaza.

Deputies arrived at the scene to discover Melody Waldecker, 54, from Silver Spring, had been fatally injured. Authorities revealed that Waldecker was struck as the carjacker attempted to escape with her vehicle.

Waldecker had just visited her mother at a nursing home in Leesburg and made a stop at a 7-Eleven before the carjacking transpired, according to her son.

Law enforcement has apprehended a suspect, ensuring there is no continued threat to the public. The investigation remains active, and the sheriff’s office is appealing for any witnesses who have not yet come forward to contact Detective Rodriquez at (703) 777-1021.

This incident is the second occurrence in two weeks in Virginia where a victim has been run over by their own car during a carjacking.

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Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News