DUNDALK, Md. — A tragic accident in Dundalk claimed the life of a teenager early Tuesday morning when he was struck by a vehicle while riding his skateboard. Baltimore County Police confirmed the victim as 19-year-old Jose Romero-Alvarez, who died following the October 1 crash at the intersection of Merritt Boulevard and Westfield Road.
The collision occurred around 5:45 a.m., a time when the roadway is often busy with morning commuters. Police said Romero-Alvarez was skateboarding through the intersection when he was struck by a vehicle traveling along Merritt Boulevard. Investigators are still piecing together the exact sequence of events, including whether the teen was crossing the street or in the roadway at the moment of impact.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene after receiving multiple calls about the crash. They found Romero-Alvarez suffering from severe injuries and immediately began lifesaving measures before transporting him to a nearby hospital. Despite medical teams’ efforts, he was later pronounced dead. His death has left family, friends, and the community in mourning over a young life lost far too soon.
Authorities said the driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and is cooperating fully with the investigation. At this stage, no charges have been announced, and police have not determined whether factors such as speed, distraction, or impairment contributed to the crash. Investigators emphasized that a full reconstruction of the incident is underway, including analysis of physical evidence, interviews with witnesses, and review of any available surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras.
The intersection of Merritt Boulevard and Westfield Road has been a concern for residents, who note that heavy traffic and limited visibility during peak hours create safety risks for pedestrians and cyclists. Romero-Alvarez’s death has reignited calls for improvements in traffic safety and heightened awareness among drivers and pedestrians alike. His passing also underscores a broader issue across Maryland, where pedestrian-involved crashes remain a significant public safety challenge.
The Baltimore County Police Crash Team continues to investigate the fatal collision. Authorities are urging anyone with information or who may have witnessed the incident to contact police. As the community mourns the sudden loss of Romero-Alvarez, local leaders and residents stress the importance of vigilance and responsibility on the road to prevent further tragedies.