Seven Killed in Virginia Crashes Over Memorial Day Holiday Weekend

Seven people were killed in traffic crashes on Virginia roads during the 2026 Memorial Day holiday weekend, according to preliminary data from Virginia State Police.

The deaths occurred during the holiday counting period from Friday through Monday. This year’s total is two fewer than in 2025, when nine people died in crashes over the Memorial Day weekend.

Virginia State Police reported that the fatal crashes happened in Appomattox, Botetourt, Henrico, Isle of Wight, Mecklenburg, and Pittsylvania counties, as well as the City of Roanoke. Two of the crashes involved pedestrians, including fatal crashes in Henrico and Isle of Wight.

As of May 26, preliminary data show 46 pedestrians have been killed on Virginia roads so far this year.

“Enhancing the safety of the Commonwealth and preserving life continues to be our top priority,” said Colonel Jeffrey S. Katz, Superintendent of Virginia State Police. “We continue to strive for a holiday where there are no fatal crashes, and while our presence sends a message, we still need drivers to slow down, buckle up, avoid distractions, and drive sober.”

State Police increased enforcement during the holiday weekend as part of Operation C.A.R.E., or Crash Awareness Reduction Effort, a nationwide, state-sponsored traffic safety campaign. All available Virginia State Police troopers and supervisors were on patrol during the holiday period.

During the enforcement campaign, troopers cited more than 2,500 drivers for speeding and more than 1,100 drivers for reckless driving. Fifty-nine drivers were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Troopers also cited 256 drivers for violating Virginia’s hands-free phone law.

Virginia is also taking part in the annual Click It or Ticket seat belt education and enforcement campaign. Over the holiday weekend, State Police issued 474 seat belt citations and 96 child restraint citations.

Virginia State Police said money collected from summonses goes to court fees and the state’s Literary Fund, which supports public school construction, technology funding, and teacher retirement.

The Memorial Day weekend is often one of the busiest travel periods of the year. State Police continue to urge drivers to slow down, wear seat belts, avoid distractions, and never drive impaired.