CATHERINE THORNTON SENTENCED TO 20 YEARS FOR VEHICULAR MANSLAUGHTER IN WICOMICO COUNTY

Wicomico County, MD - On June 27, 2025, Catherine Thornton, a 40-year-old resident of Eden, Maryland, was sentenced to 20 years in prison by the Circuit Court for Wicomico County. Thornton pleaded guilty in April to charges of Grossly Negligent Vehicular Manslaughter and Failing to Stop at the Scene of an Accident Involving Death. Chief Judge Kathleen L. Beckstead imposed the maximum combined sentence, with no part suspended.

The charges stem from an incident that occurred on December 4, 2023, when Thornton was driving westbound on South Upper Ferry Road in Eden, Maryland. Investigators determined that she crossed into the eastbound lane and struck a pedestrian who was walking on the shoulder with his girlfriend.

The victim pushed his girlfriend out of harm's way just before being hit, an act that saved her life. Thornton left the scene without stopping to assist and drove past while ignoring cries for help.

Witnesses who called 911 provided descriptions of Thornton's vehicle. Despite her efforts to conceal her involvement, investigators gathered evidence and statements that linked her to the collision.

It was later confirmed that Thornton was under the influence of narcotics at the time of the incident.

Wicomico County State's Attorney Jamie Dykes addressed the case, stating, "Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the victim who all suffered this needless tragedy. This is just one more example of how our community is harmed by illicit drug use."

The investigation was led by the Wicomico County Sheriff's Office, with Detective Nicole Chaffey heading the inquiry. Additional contributions came from Sgt. S. Lewis, DFC Shubert, and members of the Collision Reconstruction Unit.

Sgt. Redding of the Princess Anne Police Department also provided assistance. State's Attorney Dykes commended Senior Assistant State's Attorney Lauren Bourdon and Assistant State's Attorney Jeffrey Hysan, Jr., for their steadfast advocacy in this case.