PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, Md. — The man who was driving three abducted children before a deadly rollover crash near the Beltway in Prince George's County on Thursday morning has been released from an area hospital and is being held without bail in a Prince George's County jail.
According to police, 36-year-old Dana Plummer failed to stop for police and was chased by officers before the crash that killed a 16-month-old child. Plummer was driving a black Honda SUV wanted in connection with a stabbing and an Amber Alert was issued in the early morning hours before he lost control and rolled over in Oxon Hill at Branch Avenue right near the the Capital Beltway.
There was a large police response, with a dozen police, state troopers, and fire department vehicles responding. Virginia State Police troopers also responded to the scene.
The Amber Alert was issued for three young siblings who were taken from Virginia Beach early Thursday morning. Virginia State Police said Plummer abducted his children — 16-month-old Za'riyah Plummer, 5-year-old Zayir Plummer, and 7-year-old Zayin Plummer — from their home. Virginia Beach Police said a woman and a girl were stabbed multiple times at the home the children were taken from.
Two of the children and Plummer were transported to an area hospital with serious injuries that weren't considered life-threatening. The third child was airlifted to the Children’s National Hospital with critical injuries. Zariah Plummer later died from her injuries, Virginia Beach Police said Thursday. No other injuries were reported in the crash.
“Our hearts go out to the family and loved ones who are grieving this morning,” Virginia Beach Police Chief Paul Neudigate said. “This is an unimaginable tragedy, and on behalf of the VBPD, I extend our deepest sympathies to those affected by this loss.”
Virginia State Police told WUSA9 that none of their officer’s cruisers made contact with Plummer’s car during that pursuit. They will handle the investigation into the pursuit, and Maryland State Police will investigate the crash.
We’re also learning more about Plummer’s background.
Court documents WUSA9 received show the State of Virginia filed a substantial risk order against Plummer, who was on active duty in the Navy at the time of this incident, in March of this year.
Police say in that incident, he had a shotgun in his pants and rifles in his car while at a restaurant with two of his children.
Plummer allegedly told investigators he believed he was in danger and that someone was living in his attic and following him.
Court documents show police confiscated two rifles, a shotgun, and a pistol from Plummer.
The investigation into the crash remains open and ongoing, and investigators say any charges are still pending in the case. Anyone with relevant information may anonymously contact Sergeant Zimmerman at 301-392-1231.
>Watch Thursday's news conference below: