CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. — Chesterfield County Police are continuing to investigate a deadly crash involving a tanker truck that occurred late Thursday morning along a busy stretch of Route 1. The crash, which happened around 11 a.m. on January 8, 2026, claimed the life of a 51-year-old Virginia man and caused significant disruption in the area as emergency crews responded.
According to the Chesterfield County Police Department, the crash occurred in the 5800 block of Route 1 as a tanker truck was leaving a business. Investigators said the truck suddenly went out of control, crashed through a fence, crossed the roadway, and then slammed into a concrete jersey wall. The force of the impact caused extensive damage and immediately drew attention from nearby motorists and businesses.
First responders arrived to find the truck driver unresponsive at the scene. Police identified the driver as Dennis L. Maiden, 51, of the 500 block of Gaskins Road in Lancaster County, Virginia. Emergency medical crews quickly rendered aid before transporting Maiden to a nearby hospital in hopes of saving his life.
Despite the efforts of paramedics and hospital staff, Maiden was later pronounced dead at the hospital. Authorities said no other vehicles were involved in the crash, and no additional injuries were reported. The incident left many in the area shaken, especially given how suddenly the crash unfolded in broad daylight.
While the investigation remains active, police said early findings suggest that Maiden may have suffered a medical emergency while driving. Officials emphasized that this information is preliminary and has not yet been confirmed. Investigators will continue reviewing medical findings, vehicle data, and evidence from the scene to determine exactly what caused the tanker truck to veer off course.
Traffic along Route 1 was affected for several hours as police secured the area and crews worked to document the scene and clear debris. Motorists were urged to avoid the area or expect delays while the investigation and cleanup were underway. The damaged fence and surrounding property were also assessed following the crash.
Chesterfield County Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has information that could assist investigators to come forward. Tips can be shared by calling police at 804-748-1251 or Crime Solvers at 804-748-0660. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the P3 app. As the investigation continues, authorities say more details will be released when they become available.
