Tremayne D. Gross, Elizabeth N. Mathis Obituary, Death – Two Killed in Head-On Collision on I-495 in Fairfax County

A devastating head-on collision occurred on July 6, 2025, in the early hours of the morning along the express lanes of Interstate 495 in Fairfax County, resulting in the deaths of two people. According to the Virginia State Police (VSP), the crash took place at approximately 2:34 a.m. in the northbound lanes of the I-495 expressway, close to the 48-mile marker. The victims were identified as 24-year-old Tremayne D. Gross of Washington, D.C., and 32-year-old Elizabeth N. Mathis from Westminster, Maryland .

Background Information
The incident highlights the dangers of wrong-way driving, which often results in high-impact collisions with severe or fatal outcomes. Wrong-way crashes are relatively rare but are often associated with high speeds and severe consequences. According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), wrong-way crashes account for a small percentage of all crashes but result in a disproportionate number of fatalities .

The Incident
The crash occurred when a 2017 Ford Edge driven by Tremayne D. Gross was traveling in the wrong direction—heading south in the northbound lanes—when it collided head-on with a 2004 Jeep Patriot driven by Elizabeth N. Mathis. The impact was fatal for both drivers, and they were pronounced dead at the scene. Both Gross and Mathis were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash, and there were no passengers in either vehicle .

Investigation
The Virginia State Police are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. Investigators have not yet released details about why the Ford Edge was traveling in the wrong direction or whether any contributing factors such as impairment, distraction, or road conditions played a role. The police are working to gather more information and piece together the events leading up to the crash .

Implications
The incident highlights the importance of road safety and the need for drivers to be vigilant and cautious, particularly during late-night or early-morning hours when visibility may be limited. Wrong-way crashes can have devastating consequences, and it is essential for drivers to be aware of their surroundings and follow traffic laws. The Virginia State Police are urging motorists to remain alert and cautious on the road .

Community Response
The families and communities of both victims are mourning the loss of two lives cut short in a devastating crash. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, and friends and family of Gross and Mathis are remembering them fondly. The police department is providing support to the families and working to ensure that justice is served .

Conclusion
The deaths of Tremayne D. Gross and Elizabeth N. Mathis are a tragic reminder of the dangers of wrong-way driving and the importance of road safety. As the investigation into the incident continues, authorities will work to determine the cause of the crash and ensure that measures are in place to prevent similar incidents in the future. The community will continue to come together to support the families of the victims during this difficult time .

Resources:

– *Virginia State Police*: For information on the investigation and road safety tips.
– *National Transportation Safety Board*: For information on wrong-way driving and road safety.
– *Local Support Services*: For support and resources available to families and individuals affected by loss and trauma .