VSP confirms 6 vehicle fatalities over Labor Day weekend

RICHMOND, Va. (WDBJ) - Virginia State Police have revealed preliminary data showed six people died in auto collisions on commonwealth roads over the Labor Day holiday weekend between August 29 and September 1 of 2025.

In three vehicle collisions, the victims were reportedly not wearing seatbelts, and in a fourth crash, it wasn’t determined whether that victim was restrained. The other two vehicle-related fatalities involved motorcycles, including one incident that occurred in Lynchburg Sunday, August 31, said VSP.

In 2024, 10 people died in crashes over the Labor Day holiday weekend.

“Wearing a seat belt can save your life, and now, the law requires for all occupants,” said Colonel Matthew D. Hanley, Superintendent of the Virginia State Police.

“We want Virginians to have a safe Fall, and wearing a seat belt is one of the best ways to protect yourself while on the road.”

A law passed July 1 required everyone in a vehicle, regardless of age or seat position, to wear a seatbelt. Before that, only those seated in the front seat, or under the age of 18, were required to buckle up.

According to VSP, the fatal collisions occurred in:

• Lynchburg
• Norfolk
• Alexandria
• Chesapeake (2)
• Frederick County

The state-sponsored and nationwide operation: C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness Reduction Effort), VSP had all available troopers and superiors on patrol during the 2025 holiday weekend, with special emphasis on August 29 and September 1, the two days for peak travel.

During the weekend, the troopers cited drivers for infractions. The results included:

• 3018 drivers cited for speeding
• 1370 drivers cited for reckless driving
• 62 people charged with driving under the influence
• 499 people were cited for not wearing a seatbelt
• 116 child restraint violations

The total amount of crashes troopers worked came out to 767.

Funds generated from summonses issued by Virginia State Police go directly to court fees and the state’s Literary Fund, which benefits public school construction, technology funding and teacher retirement.