Edgewater Woman Critically Injured When Car Slammed Into Tree

EDGEWATER, MD — An Edgewater woman was critically injured Tuesday when the car she was riding in went out of control and struck a tree. Anne Arundel County Police are investigating whether the driver was speeding or impaired by alcohol use, according to a news release.

The crash happened about 6:15 p.m. on Central Avenue East at Loch Haven Road in Edgewater. A 2010 Nissan Maxima driven by Frederick Arthur Stevens Jr., 23, of the 1500 block Stuart Road in Edgewater, was eastbound on Central Avenue approaching Loch Haven Road. Police say Stevens failed to negotiate a curve and lost control of the car, which crossed into the opposite lane, went off the road and struck a tree.

A 21-year-old woman who was a passenger in the Maxima was flown by Maryland State Police helicopter to R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center with injuries that were critical, life-threatening injuries. Stevens was not hurt in the crash.

Investigators say the preliminary cause of the crash appears to be Stevens' failure to remain in a single lane. Speed and alcohol appear to have contributed to the accident, a police report said. The case will be reviewed by the state's attorney.

Lee Airport on Solomons Island Road was used for the helicopter landing site.

Accident photo released by Anne Arundel County Fire Department