Dylan C. Knowles Obituary, Death; Police probe fatal hit-and-run tied to suspected drunk driver.
Dylan C. Knowles Obituary, Death – A tragic hit-and-run in Augusta County has left a young man dead and another facing serious criminal charges. According to Virginia State Police, the fatal crash happened on Sunday, September 14, at about 9 p.m. along Stuarts Draft Highway (Route 340), near the intersection with Ladd Road.
Authorities say the collision involved an e-bike and a Kia Sorento that was traveling northbound. The rider of the e-bike, later identified as 25-year-old Dylan C. Knowles of Waynesboro, Virginia, was struck in the roadway. Troopers reported that Knowles died at the scene as a result of the injuries he sustained in the crash.
The driver of the Kia did not remain at the scene. Instead, officials stated, he fled immediately after the collision. However, thanks to coordination with the Waynesboro Police Department, law enforcement was able to locate and apprehend the suspect a short time later.
The driver has been identified as 36-year-old Samuel W. Call, also of Waynesboro. Police confirmed that Call was taken into custody and now faces multiple charges. These include driving while intoxicated and felony hit-and-run, both of which carry significant penalties under Virginia law. Authorities say that Call is being held at Middle River Regional Jail as the investigation continues.
The crash underscores the serious dangers posed by impaired driving and the devastating consequences that can follow. Police emphasized the importance of responsible driving, particularly when it comes to avoiding alcohol consumption before getting behind the wheel. Virginia State Police also noted that leaving the scene of a crash, especially one involving death, adds further criminal liability and worsens the tragedy for the victim’s family.
Investigators are continuing to piece together the circumstances that led to the crash. While they have confirmed the identities of both the victim and the suspect, they have not yet disclosed whether speed, road conditions, or other factors may have contributed to the collision. What is clear, officials say, is that Knowles lost his life due to the reckless actions of another motorist.
In an effort to gather additional details, Virginia State Police are reaching out to the public for assistance. Anyone who may have witnessed the crash, observed suspicious activity in the area, or has information about the incident is urged to come forward. Witnesses can contact the Virginia State Police Division Three Dispatch at 1-800-552-0962 or send information by email to questions@vsp.virginia.gov.
For the community, the loss of a 25-year-old at the hands of an alleged drunk driver highlights the ongoing risks faced by cyclists and e-bike riders sharing the road with larger vehicles. For Knowles’ family, friends, and neighbors in Waynesboro, the incident has left them grappling with an unexpected and heartbreaking loss.
As the case moves forward, authorities say further updates will be provided. For now, Samuel Call remains in custody, awaiting the legal process that will determine his accountability for the fatal crash.
