Charges Filed in Crash that Killed Two Law Enforcement Officials

Negligent driving charges have been filed against Germantown man for the fatal accident

Frederick, Md. (DG) – Charges have been filed against a Germantown man for causing a fatal accident on I-270 last December that claimed the lives of two law enforcement officials.

Maryland State Police have filed negligent driving charges against 28-year-old Roberto Garza Palacios for the December 8, 2017 crash that killed Deputy Chief State Fire Marshal Sander Cohen and FBI Special Agent Carlos Wolff.

The accident happened when Cohen was off duty and driving on 270 southbound by Falls Rd. He came upon Wolff’s disabled vehicle in the travel lane and called police for help. He blocked the disabled vehicle with his own, and activated his emergency flashing lights.

Cohen and Wolff moved to the left shoulder of 270. At that time, Palacios was driving his vehicle southbound on 270 and swerved to miss the vehicles in front of him. He hit Cohen and Wolff with his car, throwing both victims over the jersey wall and onto the northbound side of 270.

Palacios stopped his vehicle and remained at the scene. Police said alcohol, drugs, and speed were not factors in the accident.

The charge of negligent driving carries a $280 penalty and three points.

-Dianah Gibson