All Lanes Of GW Parkway Closed Due To Crash: VDOT

Authorities report a fatal incident on the George Washington Memorial Parkway in Fairfax County.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 1:48pm

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All lanes of the George Washington Memorial Parkway in Fairfax County were closed on Thursday morning due to a fatal crash near the ramp for Route 123 in McLean, according to the Virginia Department of Transportation. Backups of approximately 3 miles in length were reported, and motorists were advised to expect delays.

Why it matters

The George Washington Memorial Parkway is a major commuter route in Northern Virginia, and any closures can cause significant traffic disruptions for drivers in the region. Fatal crashes on the parkway are also concerning for public safety.

The details

According to reports, the crash occurred shortly after 7:30 a.m., leading to the closure of all northbound and southbound lanes. Authorities have confirmed that at least one fatality was associated with the incident, though further details about the nature of the crash are still unclear.

  • The crash occurred shortly after 7:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 12, 2026.

The players

Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT)

The state agency responsible for maintaining and overseeing the George Washington Memorial Parkway and other major roadways in Virginia.

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What’s next

Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the fatal crash, and the George Washington Memorial Parkway will remain closed until the scene is cleared and the roadway is deemed safe for reopening.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of safe driving practices and the potential consequences of accidents on major commuter routes like the George Washington Memorial Parkway. It also underscores the need for ongoing maintenance and safety improvements to ensure the parkway remains a reliable and secure transportation option for residents and visitors in the region.