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DUI charge in fatal head-on Hanover collision

Posted at 4:58 PM, Jun 17, 2012
and last updated 2012-06-17 21:04:26-04

HANOVER, Va. (WTVR) –A Driving Under the Influence charge has been made in connection with the fatal crash in Hanover County, said Sergeant Chris Whitley.

Whitley said the accident, which happened shortlybefore 9 p.m. Saturday on Pole Green Road, near Lee Davis Road, sent six people to the hospital.

The crash resulted in one fatality of an adult female, said officials.

The accident was a head-on collision between 1999 Saab and a 2002 Chevrolet Blazer. When emergency responders arrived, the Saab was on fire.

The Blazer was struck head-on by Richard E. Lawrence Jr., who has been charged with a DUI. Lawrence remains injured at VCU Medical Center.

The fatality from the accident was the passenger in Lawrence's Saab.

There were four victims from the Chevy SUV taken to VCU Medical Center and they have all been released, said Whitley.

Those in the Chevy were an adult female and three juveniles; ages two, six and seven.

Whitley said the victim’s name will be released upon making the proper notification to the next-of-kin.

The Hanover County Sheriff’s Office said that additional charges will be evaluated as the investigation into this incident continues, which will be done in consultation with the Hanover Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office. 

Crash investigators continue to evaluate all evidence in this case, as well as interview all known witnesses. 

The Sheriff’s Office is asking for anyone who may have witnessed this crash to call (804) 365-6140.  Should you wish to remain anonymous, please call the Metro Richmond Crime Stoppers at 780-1000 or text: iTip to CRIMES (274637).