John V. Mazza, Jr. Obituary, Death – Authorities in Chesterfield County have released the name of the individual who lost his life in a utility task vehicle (UTV) crash that occurred late Saturday night. The Chesterfield County Police Department confirmed that 73-year-old John V. Mazza Jr., a resident of Chesterfield County, was the driver involved in the incident.
According to police reports, the crash happened on Saturday, October 25, in the 20300 block of Little Road, located in a rural part of the county. Officers received a call for assistance around 11:48 p.m., after reports that a UTV had struck a tree on private property. Emergency personnel responded quickly to the scene to provide aid.
Upon arrival, responders found that the UTV had sustained significant damage after running into the tree. Despite their efforts, officials said that Mr. Mazza was pronounced deceased at the scene due to the severity of his injuries. He was believed to have been the only person on the vehicle at the time of the crash.
The Chesterfield County Police Department has taken the lead in investigating the incident. Early findings indicate that no suspicious circumstances or foul play are suspected. Investigators believe this was a tragic accident that occurred while the vehicle was being operated on private land.
Police are continuing to gather information to determine what may have caused the crash. Factors such as speed, visibility, and terrain conditions at the time are being reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation. However, officials have emphasized that no criminal activity or outside involvement is currently being considered.
In their official statement, authorities extended condolences to Mr. Mazza’s family and friends, describing the event as a deeply unfortunate loss for the community. “We are saddened by this incident and continue to offer our support to the family as they cope with this tragedy,” a police spokesperson said.
Utility task vehicles, commonly known as UTVs, are popular for recreation and work-related use, especially in rural areas like Chesterfield County. However, police and safety experts frequently remind riders to take necessary precautions when operating such vehicles. This includes wearing appropriate safety gear, maintaining safe speeds, and exercising caution when driving on uneven or wooded terrain—particularly at night or in low-visibility conditions.
Officials reiterated these safety recommendations following the crash, noting that nighttime driving can increase the risk of accidents due to reduced visibility and unexpected obstacles such as trees, rocks, or changes in the ground surface. “We encourage everyone who uses UTVs or similar vehicles to always follow safety guidelines and avoid operating them in risky conditions whenever possible,” authorities added.
The police department also encouraged members of the public who might have additional details about the crash to come forward. Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact Chesterfield County Police at 804-748-1521. This could include individuals who may have seen the UTV before the incident or have knowledge of the property layout where the crash occurred.
As of now, the investigation remains active but preliminary reports strongly suggest this was an isolated accident. No other vehicles or persons were involved, and there is no ongoing threat to the public.
The community of Chesterfield County continues to express sympathy to the Mazza family. Many residents have spoken about Mr. Mazza as a well-liked and respected member of the area. His passing has prompted renewed discussion among locals about the importance of off-road vehicle safety and awareness, especially among older riders who may underestimate the challenges of operating such vehicles on private or uneven land.
The Chesterfield County Police Department has stated that they will release additional updates if new information arises but, for now, believe the tragic event was the result of a single-vehicle accident with no further criminal investigation expected.
