A tragic accident at the Flagship Carwash in Fairfax, Virginia left one employee dead and two others injured on Saturday morning, June 29, 2024. Just before 11 a.m., a customer’s vehicle struck another car in the lot before hitting a group of three employees, according to the City of Fairfax Police Department.
The victim, identified as 62-year-old Martha Clemencia Nguyen of Fairfax, was transported to Fairfax Hospital, where she later died from her injuries. The other two employees, whose injuries are not life-threatening, were treated at the same hospital.
Witnesses reported the chaotic scene as first responders arrived quickly to provide aid. One bystander recalled, “It all happened so fast. One minute, they were working, and the next, there was chaos.”
Nguyen, a dedicated worker at the carwash, was well-known in the community for her warm personality and diligent work ethic. Her loss has been deeply felt among her colleagues and customers.
The vehicle driver remained at the scene and cooperated with police. Initial investigations indicate that neither speed nor alcohol was a factor in the accident. The investigation is ongoing as authorities seek to understand the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
Fairfax City Mayor Catherine S. Read expressed her condolences, saying, “Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and others who witnessed this event unfold. Such an unexpected loss of life impacts our community, and we share the grief many are feeling.”
Flagship Carwash, located at 10874 Fairfax Boulevard, issued a statement expressing its condolences to Nguyen’s family and support for the injured employees. It also mentioned that it is fully cooperating with the investigation and is taking measures to support its staff during this difficult time.
The local community has shown an outpouring of support in the wake of this event. A memorial is being planned to honor Nguyen’s life and contributions.