FRUITLAND, Md. — A night that began like so many others for three young college students ended in heartbreak and unimaginable loss for 18-year-old Matthew Garcia of Rockville, Maryland, whose life was tragically cut short, leaving a family, a university, and an entire community grieving.
On the evening of February 11, shortly after 8:30 p.m., Wicomico County emergency crews responded to a devastating crash involving a Honda Civic that left the roadway and plunged into Coulbourn Mill Pond. The vehicle had been traveling along South Division Street when, according to investigators, it drove through a stop sign. Authorities say the driver attempted to navigate the turn at the intersection but lost control. The car crashed through a guardrail before entering the water.
First responders from the Fruitland Fire Department, Salisbury Fire Department, Salisbury Special Operations, and the Sharptown Dive Team arrived swiftly, racing against time in a desperate effort to save the young occupants. One person was found on top of the submerged vehicle and rescued. The other two were pulled from inside the car in a dramatic recovery effort.
Emergency medical teams transported one patient to TidalHealth Peninsula Regional, while two critically injured students were airlifted by Maryland State Police helicopters to the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center. Despite every lifesaving measure taken, tragedy could not be avoided.
On Thursday, authorities confirmed that Matthew Garcia did not survive. Investigators believe Matthew was driving the vehicle at the time of the crash. Speeding may have been a contributing factor, according to police.
The two passengers — an 18-year-old from Takoma Park, Maryland, and an 18-year-old from Washington, D.C. — survived the crash and remain in recovery. Salisbury University later confirmed that all three young men are students of the institution.
For Salisbury University, the loss struck deeply.
In a message to the campus community, SU President Dr. Carolyn Lepre shared her sorrow:
“Last night, we were informed of a terrible car accident involving three Salisbury University students. It is with profound sadness that I share with you that we have been notified that one of the students, Matthew Garcia, has passed away as a result of that accident.”
Matthew was a freshman pursuing international business in the Perdue School of Business. He was also a member of the university’s AI Club, embracing innovation and preparing for a future filled with promise. Though his time at Salisbury was brief, the impact he made was lasting.
Those who knew Matthew describe him as kind-hearted, loyal, and dependable — a good son and a devoted friend who was always willing to lend a helping hand. He carried himself with warmth and sincerity, qualities that made him easy to love and impossible to forget. His bright future, filled with ambition and opportunity, was only just beginning.
The university announced that classes on Friday, February 13, would continue as scheduled, but attendance would be optional to allow students time to grieve, reflect, and support one another. Faculty members were encouraged to use the time for review and individual support rather than regular instruction, recognizing that healing and compassion must come first in moments like these.
President Lepre also reminded students that support services are available. Salisbury University’s Counseling Center is offering assistance to any student in need during this difficult time. Appointments can be requested by calling 410-543-6070 or emailing counseling@salisbury.edu.
As the investigation into the crash continues, the focus for many remains on honoring Matthew’s memory and surrounding his family and friends with love. The waters of Coulbourn Mill Pond now mark the site of an unimaginable loss, but they also serve as a reminder of how fragile and precious life truly is.
Matthew Garcia’s journey was far too short, but the legacy of his kindness, ambition, and friendship will endure in the hearts of those who knew him. His laughter, his dreams, and his presence will never be forgotten.
In loving memory of Matthew Garcia —
A beloved son.
A cherished friend.
A proud Salisbury University student.
May he rest in eternal peace, and may his family and loved ones find strength and comfort in the days ahead.