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Cars crash investigations are underway in Germantown, Maryland, after police said a 13-year-old boy was behind the wheel of a stolen Kia carrying six other children. The collision killed the driver of another vehicle and injured all seven juveniles inside the Kia.
The deadly crash occurred early Tuesday, Aug. 4, according to the Montgomery County Police Department. Emergency crews arrived at approximately 5:25 a.m. and found extensive damage to both cars, including an overturned Kia with occupants trapped inside.
Shocking Cars Crash Leaves One Driver Dead
Police identified the victim as William Vance Payne II, a 58-year-old man from Virginia. Payne was driving a blue 2007 Toyota Matrix when it collided with the white 2015 Kia Optima. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Based on preliminary information, investigators believe the Kia was traveling north on a highway when it entered an intersection and struck the Toyota, which was traveling east. Officials have not released additional details about the intersection or the circumstances that led to the impact.
The force of the crash caused the Kia to overturn. Montgomery County Maryland Fire and Rescue Service personnel worked at the scene to free occupants from the damaged vehicle and provide emergency treatment.
Seven Juveniles Injured in Stolen Vehicle
The Kia driver was transported to an area hospital in critical but stable condition, police said. The other six passengers—four girls and two boys between the ages of 12 and 15—were also taken to hospitals.
Authorities said the injuries among the children ranged in severity. No further medical updates were immediately available, and officials did not release the names of the juveniles because of their ages.
- The Kia contained seven juveniles between 12 and 15 years old.
- The vehicle was reported stolen from a Germantown residence several hours before the crash.
- The Toyota driver, William Vance Payne II, died at the scene.
- All occupants of the Kia were injured and transported for medical care.
- The investigation may take months to complete.
Critical Investigation Could Determine Possible Charges
Police said the Kia had been reported stolen from a Germantown residence several hours before the collision. Investigators are now examining how the vehicle was taken, who had access to it and what happened before the crash.
The Montgomery County Police Department said the investigation into the collision could take months. Authorities are expected to review physical evidence, traffic conditions, vehicle data, witness accounts and available surveillance footage as they reconstruct the crash.
Any charges related to the collision will be determined by the Montgomery County State’s Attorney’s Office after police present the evidence, according to the department. That means no final charging decision has been announced at this stage.
The case highlights the serious risks associated with unauthorized access to cars, especially when a stolen vehicle is operated by an unlicensed and underage driver. It also underscores the dangers faced by other motorists when a vehicle enters an intersection at a high rate of speed or under unclear circumstances.
What Police and Families Are Facing
For Payne’s family, the crash has resulted in an unexpected and devastating loss. For the families of the injured children, the focus remains on medical treatment and recovery. Investigators must also determine whether additional adults or other individuals played a role in the theft or use of the Kia.
Officials have not said whether speed, impairment, mechanical problems or another factor contributed to the collision. Those questions will likely be addressed as the investigation continues.
Residents should avoid drawing conclusions before the evidence is fully reviewed. Police have released only preliminary information, and the condition of the injured children and the legal outcome could change as more facts become available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the deadly crash happen?
The crash happened in Germantown, Maryland, early Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026.
Who died in the collision?
Police said William Vance Payne II, a 58-year-old Virginia man driving a Toyota Matrix, died at the scene.
How many children were in the stolen Kia?
Seven juveniles were inside the Kia, including the 13-year-old driver and six passengers between the ages of 12 and 15.
What is the condition of the injured children?
The 13-year-old driver was hospitalized in critical but stable condition. The other six children were hospitalized with injuries ranging in severity.
Have charges been filed?
No final charges related to the collision have been announced. The Montgomery County State’s Attorney’s Office will consider possible charges after reviewing evidence from investigators.
