Man Killed After Car Falls on Him in Henrico

17-Year-Old Identified as I-95 Fatal Crash Victim

Man Killed After Car Falls on Him in Henrico — a lone mechanic lost his life on the evening of Monday, May 26, when the vehicle he was working beneath suddenly toppled and trapped him. First responders from the Henrico County Police and Fire divisions rushed to the 9000 block of Patterson Avenue around 7:30 p.m., after a passerby reported a serious medical emergency. Upon arrival, crews discovered the man pinned underneath his car; despite their best efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

According to a police spokesperson, what caused the vehicle to collapse off its support remains unclear. Investigators believe this to be a “very tragic accident,” and homicide detectives are treating it as an unexpected mechanical failure rather than foul play. Traffic on Patterson Avenue was briefly rerouted as officers and fire personnel worked to stabilize the scene, document evidence, and clear wreckage. Witnesses described the atmosphere as shock and sorrow, as neighbors gathered at a respectful distance, hoping for a miracle that sadly never came.

The victim, whose identity has not yet been released pending family notification, was a resident known for his skill with cars and willingness to lend a hand to friends and neighbors needing repairs. Community members remember him as a quiet, hardworking individual who took pride in maintaining older vehicles as a hobby and side gig. His unexpected passing on a holiday known for remembrance and family gatherings has left many in Henrico County reeling.

When a death occurs under such sudden and distressing circumstances, surviving family members may be entitled to pursue wrongful death compensation. These claims can cover funeral and burial expenses, lost future income, loss of companionship, and emotional distress suffered by close relatives. In cases of mechanical failures or defective equipment, additional damages may be sought for negligent design, manufacturing defects, or improper maintenance standards that contributed to the collapse.

At Latham & Martin, P.C., we have extensive experience representing families in wrongful death and personal injury matters. Our attorneys conduct thorough investigations, consulting with accident reconstruction experts and mechanical engineers to pinpoint the root cause of equipment failures. We then pursue maximum compensation on behalf of our clients, whether negotiating with insurance companies or taking cases to trial. We aim to secure financial stability for the victim’s loved ones and hold responsible parties accountable, ensuring that similar tragedies are less likely to occur.

Our team understands the overwhelming stress and grief that follow fatal accidents. We handle all aspects of the legal process—from gathering police reports and medical records to filing motions and advocating in court—so families can focus on healing and supporting one another. If you have lost a loved one in a preventable accident, we encourage you to reach out for a free, no-obligation consultation. We are committed to guiding you through each step, providing compassionate support and skilled legal representation.

This Memorial Day tragedy is a solemn reminder of how quickly life can change. As Henrico County investigators continue their work to establish the precise cause behind this fatal collapse, the community mourns both the life lost and the void left behind. If you or someone you love has suffered due to a similar mechanical failure, Latham & Martin, P.C. stands ready to help you seek justice and closure.

Disclaimer: This article is provided by Latham & Martin Law and is intended solely for informational purposes. While we strive to ensure accuracy, some details have been sourced from external sources, and we have not independently verified all facts related to this incident. If you notice any inaccuracies, don’t hesitate to contact our office so we can correct them. Content will be removed upon request.

Please note that the information shared here is not intended as legal or medical advice, nor does it serve as a solicitation for business. If you or someone you know has been injured in an accident, we strongly recommend seeking immediate medical attention. Additionally, the photo accompanying this article is for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual scene of the incident.