Driver Faces Manslaughter Charge In WSSC Worker's Death

SILVER SPRING, MD — A Silver Spring woman accused of driving while intoxicated has been charged with manslaughter and other crimes in the death of a WSSC worker who was fatally struck while fixing a water main break.

Ernest Joseph Dyson, 39, of Clinton, died Sept. 8 when he was hit by an impaired driver, Montgomery County Police said. The fatal crash happened at the intersection of New Hampshire Avenue and Rodney Road.

Detectives on Monday arrested Dori Campbell, 35, on charges related to the fatal collision. She was taken into custody on a warrant charging her with:

• Negligent manslaughter by vehicle
• Negligent homicide by vehicle while under the influence
• Driving on a suspended out-of-state license
• Driving an uninsured vehicle

A police news release said Campbell was traveling 50 miles per hour, ten miles over the posted 40-mph speed limit and she had a blood alcohol content of 0.19, more than twice the legal limit.

A half-empty bottle of alcohol was found in the front passenger seat of Campbell’s vehicle, investigators said.

Dyson was pronounced dead at the scene by Montgomery County Fire and Rescue personnel.

WSSC Water General Manager and CEO Kishia L. Powell on Monday issued a statement after Campbell's arrest:

"We will never forget the tragic death of WSSC Water employee Ernest Dyson while serving in the line of duty. … Ernest’s death is a sad reminder of the risks our front-line water heroes face serving our 1.9 million customers. In honor of Ernest, WSSC Water will seek legislation during the 2025 Maryland General Assembly Session to enhance work zone safety for our employees," Powell said. "The bill, Ernest Dyson’s Law, will help keep our essential workers safe by using speed control systems in our work zones — similar to those used in highway work zones throughout Maryland. We look forward to working with our state representatives to pass this critical legislation, which will save lives.”

Campbell is being held at the Montgomery County Central Processing Unit, where she is awaiting a bond hearing.