Carlton Herndon, a retired D.C. police detective, was killed Monday evening when his Nissan Maxima was struck by a vehicle driven by 34-year-old Anthony Coleman, an off-duty officer with the Prince George’s County Police Department.
The fatal collision occurred on northbound Route 301 near Missouri Avenue in Brandywine, Maryland. Herndon, 56, died at the scene. According to Maryland State Police, both speed and alcohol are believed to have contributed to the crash.
On Friday, Herndon’s loved ones gathered outside the Sixth District police station in Northeast Washington, where he last served as an officer, to honor his memory. They remembered him as a dedicated father, son, brother, and public servant.
In a symbolic and emotional moment, Herndon’s family placed the trunk lid—the only recognizable part of his vehicle—next to the podium during the tribute.
“His friends, grown men, are calling me in tears,” said his mother, Iris Toyer. “I can hear their heartbreak in their voices.”
Roughly two dozen people attended the memorial, including Herndon’s wife and son.
“He was passionate about his work,” said retired Sixth District Commander Durriyyah Habeebullah. “He was proud to be a detective and truly a remarkable person.”
“The tragic irony is that he lost his life because of another officer,” she added. “His absence is deeply felt by this community.”
Toyer voiced the family’s belief that Coleman had been drinking and driving at an excessive speed when the crash occurred. “Carlton was killed on impact,” she said.
Coleman has been placed on paid administrative leave while the investigation continues.
