Bladensburg, Maryland — A joyful community gathering descended into tragedy Saturday night when 66-year-old Sunday Okedeyi Joseph, a Washington, D.C. resident, allegedly reversed his vehicle into a children’s birthday party tent, killing a 31-year-old woman and injuring fourteen others, including eight children. The shocking incident has left the Bladensburg community and Prince George’s County residents stunned and mourning.
The crash occurred in the early evening hours, as neighbors and family members gathered to celebrate a child’s birthday in a residential backyard. Witnesses described a scene of horror as the vehicle suddenly backed into the party area, striking attendees before the driver fled on foot. Emergency services were called immediately.
Police and paramedics arrived within minutes, providing critical care to the injured. The 31-year-old woman was pronounced dead at the scene, while the injured, including multiple children, were transported to local hospitals. Some suffered serious injuries, with hospital staff reporting trauma consistent with blunt-force impact from a motor vehicle.
Authorities quickly initiated a manhunt for Sunday Okedeyi Joseph, who reportedly fled the scene before officers arrived. Law enforcement described him as the driver of the vehicle and indicated that charges of vehicular homicide, assault, and hit-and-run are being prepared. The Maryland State Police and Prince George’s County police are leading the investigation.
Witnesses at the scene expressed horror and disbelief, recounting the chaos and panic that erupted as the vehicle struck the party tent. Families scrambled to shield children, while others attempted to provide first aid. “It was a nightmare,” one neighbor said. “People were screaming, running, trying to get kids out of the way. I can’t believe this happened in our neighborhood.”
Emergency responders emphasized the rapid response and the efforts made to stabilize the injured. Helicopters were dispatched for critical cases, and local hospitals activated trauma protocols to handle multiple patients simultaneously. First responders praised community members who assisted immediately before their arrival.
Police urged anyone with information regarding Sunday Okedeyi Joseph’s whereabouts to come forward. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby homes and traffic cameras, and authorities are appealing to the public for tips to ensure the suspect is apprehended swiftly.
Community leaders and local officials expressed grief and outrage over the incident. Statements emphasized support for the victims and their families while highlighting the importance of justice. Counseling services are being offered to residents affected by the traumatic event, particularly children who witnessed the tragedy firsthand.
The investigation will also examine potential contributing factors, including the driver’s intent, vehicle condition, and any prior complaints or incidents. Officials indicated that while preliminary reports suggest the act was deliberate, a thorough inquiry is ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the deadly incident.
As Bladensburg and Prince George’s County come to terms with the aftermath, the community has begun organizing vigils and support networks for victims and families. The tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the vulnerability of pedestrians and party-goers to vehicle-related incidents, and of the need for vigilance, accountability, and swift law enforcement action.
