TEMPLE HILLS, MD – The tragic story of a high-speed chase that ended in a deadly crash unfolded in Prince George’s County, linked to an Amber Alert originating from Virginia Beach. The incident, involving a father accused of abducting his three children, has left the community in shock and mourning.
The harrowing sequence of events began the previous night in Virginia Beach, where police received a distressing report from a woman who claimed her ex-husband, Dana Plummer, had stabbed her and another child before fleeing with their three children, aged 7, 5, and 1. An Amber Alert was promptly issued, setting off a frantic search for the suspect and his young passengers.
Early the next morning, authorities spotted Plummer’s vehicle and initiated a pursuit that crossed state lines into Maryland. As the chase reached Temple Hills during rush hour, a commuter’s dash cam captured the suspect’s SUV speeding past at an alarming 120 miles per hour. The vehicle eventually lost control, resulting in a catastrophic crash.
Eyewitnesses described the chaotic scene, with debris scattered across the road and police officers approaching the wreckage with guns drawn. Tragically, the 1-year-old child did not survive the crash, despite immediate medical attention and an airlift to a nearby hospital. The other two children were rescued from the vehicle and are expected to recover.
Plummer, who survived the crash, now faces a slew of serious charges in both Virginia and Maryland. Authorities in Virginia Beach are investigating the initial abduction and stabbing, while Maryland State Police are handling the crash investigation. Charges will be processed through the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney’s office.
The incident has raised questions about the pursuit policies of law enforcement agencies. Virginia State Police confirmed that the chase adhered to their guidelines, with supervisors authorizing the high-speed pursuit due to the severity of the felony abduction charges against Plummer.
As the community grapples with the heartbreaking loss of a young life, the investigation continues, aiming to bring justice for the victims and prevent such tragedies in the future.