UPDATE: Driver, John Robert Daniel, has been charged with Reckless Driving in this case.
BRUNSWICK COUNTY, Va. (WAVY) — An Alberta man died following a single-vehicle crash on Route 1 at Boydton Plank Road early on Feb. 8, 2025, according to Virginia State Police.
At approximately 2:50 a.m., state police investigated the accident on Route 1 at 16046 Boydton Plank Road.
A preliminary investigation indicated that the driver of a 2015 Honda Civic, 43-year-old John Robert Daniel was traveling southbound on Boydton Plank Road when he lost control of the vehicle. Daniel then crossed all lanes of travel before running off the roadway and striking a tree.
The impact resulted in the death of the front-seat passenger, 35-year-old Richard Duane Bennett II.
Daniel sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to VCU Medical Center.
Both occupants were not wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash. Alcohol was a contributing factor.
The case was initially brought to Brunswick Commonwealth Attorney Meredith Smith, who recused herself from prosecution.
On Feb. 13, 2025, the Spotsylvania Commonwealth Attorney was appointed to handle the case. John Robert Daniel has since been charged with reckless driving.