Authorities have identified the man who died Friday afternoon following a multi-vehicle crash involving a Fairfax County police cruiser on Braddock Road, near the western campus of George Mason University. The incident has drawn attention due to its location and the number of vehicles involved, prompting an ongoing investigation by local officials.
According to Fairfax County Police, the crash occurred shortly after 1 p.m. at the intersection of Braddock Road and Prestwick Drive in the Braddock area. Investigators believe speed may have played a role in the chain-reaction collision.
Police reported that three vehicles were stopped at a red traffic signal in the eastbound lanes of Braddock Road when a Toyota Camry, also traveling eastbound, struck a marked Fairfax County police cruiser that was stopped at the light. The impact caused the cruiser to be pushed into the vehicle ahead of it, which was then forced into a fourth vehicle. The crash resulted in significant damage across multiple vehicles at the busy intersection.
The driver of the Toyota Camry was identified as 57-year-old Dariush Bakhtiani of Centreville. He was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition and later pronounced dead. Authorities confirmed that he was the only person who lost his life in the crash.
The on-duty Fairfax County police officer driving the cruiser was also taken to a hospital for treatment. Police said the officer’s injuries were not considered life-threatening and that the officer is expected to recover. No additional serious injuries were reported among the occupants of the other vehicles involved.
Detectives with the department’s crash investigation team are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the collision. Officials have stated that they are reviewing factors such as vehicle speed and are also investigating whether impairment may have contributed to the crash. No conclusions have been released at this time, and the investigation remains active.
The incident caused traffic disruptions in the area as emergency crews responded and investigators worked to document the scene. Motorists were advised to use alternate routes during the response, and normal traffic flow was later restored.
This tragic crash serves as a reminder of the dangers associated with excessive speed and the importance of remaining alert and cautious on busy roadways, especially near intersections. Law enforcement officials continue to encourage drivers to follow traffic laws and remain mindful of surrounding vehicles to help prevent similar incidents.
Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has information that could assist investigators to reach out to local law enforcement. Officials emphasized that even small details could be helpful in determining exactly how the collision unfolded.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on understanding the events that led to this tragedy and ensuring accountability. Community members are encouraged to remain respectful while details are reviewed and to keep the individuals affected, including the families and first responders, in their thoughts.
Updates will be shared as more information becomes available.
