WASHINGTON — The pedestrian struck and killed Monday afternoon by a Metro Transit police officer in Prince George’s County has been identified as Derrick Staton, 16, of Clinton, Maryland.
The crash happened on Route 301 in Brandywine, near Chadds Ford Drive and closed the roadway for about 5 hours.
Maryland State Police said Staton was struck by off-duty Metro K-9 officer Gary Bottalico. The officer was on his way to work, driving a Metro Chevy Silverado pickup.
The preliminary investigation indicated that pedestrian error may have contributed to the crash.
Police believed Staton walked directly into the path of the approaching pickup.
The fatal crash remains under investigation.
Officer Battalico has been placed on administrative leave.
