John Welin, Karen Berneck, and Thomas Stevao Obituary, Death: Three Lives Lost in Tragic Maryland Crash

CUMBERLAND, Md. — The Maryland community and the loved ones of John Welin, Karen Berneck, and Thomas Stevao are mourning their tragic deaths following a devastating two-vehicle collision on Interstate 68.

Welin, 79, of Roscoe, Illinois; Berneck, 81, also of Roscoe; and Stevao, 25, of Centreville, Virginia, were killed in the crash that occurred Sunday on eastbound Interstate 68 near Maryland Route 36.

According to the Maryland State Police, troopers from the Cumberland Barrack responded to the scene after receiving reports of a serious collision. Preliminary findings indicate that a Subaru Forester traveling westbound crossed the grass median for reasons that remain under investigation before entering the eastbound lanes.

The Subaru then collided head-on with a Volkswagen Tiguan.

Welin, who was driving the Subaru, and his passenger Berneck were pronounced deceased at the scene. Stevao, who was a passenger in the Volkswagen, was also pronounced dead following the collision.

The crash also left two other individuals injured. Volkswagen driver Patrick Kaczmarek, 25, of Clifton, Virginia, was transported by Maryland State Police Aviation Command to a trauma center for treatment. Passenger Jacqueline Durham, 25, also of Clifton, was taken by ambulance to a local hospital.

Investigation Into Fatal Collision Continues

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances that led to the crash, including why the Subaru crossed the median and entered the opposite lanes of traffic.

The Maryland State Police Crash Team is handling the investigation as officials work to reconstruct the events leading up to the deadly collision. Additional details may be released as the investigation progresses.

Remembering Those Lost

Beyond the details of the crash, the deaths of John Welin, Karen Berneck, and Thomas Stevao represent the loss of three individuals whose lives were meaningful to their families, friends, and communities.

Their loved ones are now left with memories of shared experiences, relationships, and moments that will continue to hold significance in the days ahead. Although their passing occurred under tragic circumstances, the impact they had on those who knew them will remain part of their lasting legacy.

As families grieve this heartbreaking loss, they are surrounded by the support and condolences of those affected by the tragedy.

Funeral arrangements, memorial service details, and additional information about their lives will be shared by their families when they are ready.

Disclaimer

This article is based on information available from authorities and publicly reported details regarding the fatal Interstate 68 crash involving John Welin, Karen Berneck, and Thomas Stevao. The investigation remains ongoing, and circumstances surrounding the collision may change as officials release additional verified information.

The information provided on this website is for general information purposes only, and not all information is guaranteed to be accurate. Funeral, obituary, and memorial details will be provided by the families or authorized representatives when officially announced. Readers should rely on confirmed sources for the most current information.