Thurinton Harvell Sr.

About Thurinton, Sr.

Throughout his 27-year military career, Colonel Harvell completed several tours of duty that took him far from his home in Bowie, Maryland. He bravely defended his country in several combat zones including Operations Desert Storm/Shield, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom.

In his spare time, he enjoyed traveling with family and friends, riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, and cheering on his favorite NFL team, the Washington Commanders. Additionally, he found great joy in mentoring/empowering youth and participating in service projects through his fraternity, Kappa Alpha Psi, Inc.

Crash Description

On July 15, 2019, Thurinton Harvell Sr. and his son, Thurinton Harvell Jr. were struck by a tractor-trailer on the side of I-81. Prior to the crash, Harvell Jr. and Sr. were attempting to refuel their vehicle, which was legally parked on the highway's right-hand shoulder. Harvell Sr. was pronounced dead at the scene. His son was injured and taken to a nearby hospital. Cynthia, his wife, was at the gas station waiting for her husband and son when then crash occurred.

Life After the Crash

Cynthia, along with her daughter, Tiffany, and son, TJ, want to honor their Father’s memory and his legacy of service. Cynthia wants to ensure no other family has a similar experience. She strongly supports requiring crash avoidance technologies, such as automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control, in large trucks.