Tower Down 09.09.20 (MD)

[TowNews]

Maryland State Police Investigating Crash That Killed Tow Truck Operator In Prince George’s County

September 10, 2020

 

 

(COLLEGE PARK, MD) – Maryland State Police are investigating a crash that killed a tow truck operator working on the side of the road Wednesday evening in Prince George’s County.

 

The victim is identified as Jose Maria Zuniga, 76, or Silver Spring, Maryland. Zuniga was transported by ambulance to University of Maryland Prince George’s Medical Center, where he died.

 

The driver of the 2015 Dodge Charger involved in the crash is identified as John Lewis Tunstall III, 31, of Glenarden, Maryland. Charges are pending the outcome of the investigation and consultation with the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney’s Office. Tunstall, who remained at the scene, was transported to the hospital by troopers before being released. The two other passengers in his car were uninjured in the crash.

 

At about 9:25 p.m. on Wednesday, troopers from the Maryland State Police College Park Barrack responded to a call of a pedestrian struck on westbound Route 50 at MD 704. According to a preliminary investigation, Zuniga was picking up a vehicle when he was struck by the mirror of Tunstall’s car.

 

No arrests have been made at this time in connection of the crash. The incident remains under investigation.

 

Anyone with information on this case is asked to contact the College Park Barrack at 301-345-3101

 

RESOURCE LINK

[rreschran]

Another sad incident and a life taken needlessly. I'd like to know whether or not the driver of the Dodge was texting or not. So sad. Christine and I send our prayers to the tower's family and the company he worked for or owned.   R.

[GRUMPS The Towman]

Another AVOIDABLE tragic, loss of a brother Operator..

Rest easy Operator Zuniga... We will drag those chains from here..

[Old Tow]

So sad, we here at Rick's Towing send our condolences and prayers to the Zuniga family and to his Company

[Greg Cravens]

These unnecessary tragic events are maddening. We have to stay vigilant and keep one eye on the road at all times. So sad....

[mooresbp]

Our thoughts and prayers

[LisaJones]

It saddens my heart all this senseless loss. I wish there was a way to bring awareness to all the difficulties and dangers and lives taken. All tow truck operators deserve so much more respect and recognition and job protection then your afforded.

 

My condolences to the family and friends and his company. I will hold them in my prayers. May god watch over and keep each of you safe always.