HANOVER, Md. — A tragic early-morning crash in Hanover has claimed the life of a pedestrian from Massachusetts, according to the Anne Arundel County Police Department. Officers were called to the scene shortly before 1 a.m. Thursday after receiving reports of a vehicle striking a person at a busy intersection, marking another fatal incident involving a pedestrian on Maryland roadways.
Police said officers responded around 12:50 a.m. on Feb. 5 to a motor vehicle collision at the intersection of Aviation Boulevard and Amtrak Way. When first responders arrived, they found a man lying in the roadway after being struck by a vehicle. Fire Department personnel were immediately requested to assist, but the victim’s injuries were severe.
The pedestrian was identified as Benjamin Kirchmyer, 53, of Franklin, Massachusetts. Authorities said Kirchmyer was pronounced dead at the scene by Fire Department crews. The circumstances surrounding why he was in the roadway at the time of the crash have not yet been fully explained, and investigators are working to establish a clearer timeline of events.
According to preliminary findings, a 1998 Honda Civic was traveling northbound on Aviation Boulevard when it struck Kirchmyer. The vehicle was driven by a 43-year-old man from Baltimore. Police said the driver remained at the scene following the crash and did not report any injuries. No other vehicles were involved in the incident.
The intersection where the crash occurred is located near major transportation routes and sees regular traffic, even during overnight hours. Police noted that reduced visibility, lighting conditions, and pedestrian activity can increase risks during early-morning hours, particularly in areas not designed for foot traffic. Portions of the roadway were temporarily restricted while investigators documented the scene.
The Anne Arundel County Police Department’s Crash Reconstruction Team is now handling the investigation. Officials said the team will examine physical evidence, vehicle information, and roadway conditions to determine exactly how the crash occurred and whether any contributing factors played a role. At this time, police have not announced whether charges will be filed.
Authorities are reminding both drivers and pedestrians to remain alert and cautious, especially during late-night and early-morning hours. Pedestrian crashes continue to be a serious concern nationwide, and officials stress the importance of visibility and roadway awareness. The investigation into Kirchmyer’s death remains ongoing, and police say additional details will be released as more information becomes available.
