Luke Jason Hawthorne, Munir Loyan Morris Obituary, Death; Two UMES students killed in Worcester County crash, details emerging.

Luke Jason Hawthorne, Munir Loyan Morris Obituary, Death – The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a tragic single-vehicle crash that claimed the lives of two University of Maryland Eastern Shore students. The fatal accident occurred on Nassawango Road near Camp Road in the Snow Hill area of Worcester County. Authorities received reports of the crash at approximately 8:18 p.m. on September 3.

Preliminary investigation indicates that the vehicle involved, a 2016 Chevrolet Colorado pickup truck, was traveling southbound on Nassawango Road when it failed to navigate a curve. The pickup left the roadway and struck multiple trees. The driver, identified as 18-year-old Luke Jason Hawthorne from Bensalem, Pennsylvania, was pronounced dead at the scene. His passenger, 18-year-old Munir Loyan Morris from Capitol Heights, Maryland, sustained critical injuries and was airlifted by the Maryland State Police Aviation unit to TidalHealth in Salisbury. Sadly, Morris later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. There were no additional occupants in the vehicle.

Authorities confirmed that both Hawthorne and Morris were students at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. Upon learning of the crash, university officials were notified and assisted law enforcement in contacting the families of the victims. The university community has expressed shock and sorrow over the loss of the two young men, recognizing the profound impact on classmates, faculty, and staff.

The investigation is being led by Lt. Christopher Larmore of the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Crash Reconstruction Unit. Law enforcement officials are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has relevant information to come forward. Those with details can contact Lt. Larmore directly via email at clarmore@worcestermd.gov.

While the cause of the crash is still under review, the preliminary details suggest that failure to negotiate the curve on Nassawango Road led to the vehicle leaving the roadway. Investigators are examining the roadway conditions, vehicle dynamics, and any other factors that may have contributed to the collision.

This devastating incident has deeply affected both the local community and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. Officials emphasize the importance of safety and caution when traveling on rural roads, particularly at night or on curving stretches where accidents can happen unexpectedly.

The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office continues to work closely with the families, the university, and other authorities to piece together the full circumstances surrounding the crash. Updates are expected as the investigation progresses and more information becomes available.

In the wake of this tragic accident, community members are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any information that could assist in the investigation. The loss of Hawthorne and Morris underscores the risks associated with road travel and the sudden, life-altering consequences that can result from traffic accidents.

Authorities continue to gather evidence and assess all factors involved, with the goal of providing clarity to the families and the public. Meanwhile, the university and Worcester County community are mourning the untimely deaths of the two students and offering support to those impacted by this tragedy.