UPDATE: Highway Worker's Death a Tragic Reminder of Road Dangers: SHA

(Updated at 3:25 p.m. Jan. 10) PASADENA, MD — A Pasadena driver was allegedly speeding when his Jeep entered a construction zone and fatally struck a highway worker Monday afternoon, according to the Anne Arundel County Police Department. A worker directing traffic at the site, where travel was reduced to one lane for roadwork. The fatal crash happened about 12:50 p.m. on Fort Smallwood Road at Hillcreek Road in Pasadena.

Authorities say the worker who died is Rodney Christopher Chase, 58, of Arbuton Avenue in Baltimore. The Maryland State Highway Administration on Tuesday offered its condolences to the family, friends and co-workers of Chase, employed by PDI Sheets, Inc. “We mourn the loss of a member of our extended contracting family in a tragic incident on Fort Smallwood Road near Pasadena. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Mr. Chase’s family, friends and coworkers,” said State Highway Administrator Gregory C. Johnson, P.E.

Investigators say a 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by Jason Lee Disney, 32, of Boxgrove Court in Pasadena was traveling southeast on Fort Smallwood Road approaching Hillcreek Road. Hillcreek was reduced to one lane because of construction on Fort Smallwood Road. As Disney's Jeep approached Hillcreek Road, it struck a construction worker who was holding a stop/slow sign in the center of the road.

Chase was pronounced dead on the scene by members of the Anne Arundel County Fire Department.

The preliminary cause of the crash appears to be excessive speed, and failing to follow traffic direction. Any charges are pending review by the State’s Attorney, police said.

“This is an unfortunate reminder of how dangerous highway work can be, particularly when workers’ only protection is a hardhat and reflective vest," Johnson said in a statement. "While this crash remains under investigation, it is critical to remind motorists of the paramount role they have in safeguarding the lives of our workers. Drivers need to slow down and remain alert in work zones – work zone safety is in your hands.”