ASHLAND, VA — An 89-year-old woman died and two other people were injured after an SUV crashed into Hanover Manor, an assisted living and memory care facility, on Friday afternoon, according to Ashland police. Officers said they were called to 809 Thompson Street at about 2 p.m. for a report of a vehicle into a building.

Police identified the woman who died as Mary Smith Raines of Hanover County. She was taken to VCU Medical Center with serious injuries after the crash, but officials said she later died. The other two people hurt had minor injuries, and police said all three were bystanders when the SUV entered the building.

Crash And Charges

Ashland police said the driver was 60-year-old Ramatou Zongo of Ruther Glen. She was charged with reckless driving. The department has not said what led to the crash or whether any additional charges are being considered.

Hanover Manor describes itself on its website as a small, close-knit community with about 70 residents. The crash took place at that address, and police said their investigation remains open as they continue to piece together what happened inside and outside the facility.

How It Happened

Investigators said the SUV struck the assisted living home in Ashland during the afternoon response on Friday. The building serves older adults, including residents in memory care, which made the scene especially serious for staff, residents and first responders already working around the facility.

Police did not release details about the vehicle’s speed, direction of travel or the condition of the structure after impact. They said only that three bystanders were injured when the SUV went into the building, with one death later confirmed and two other people listed with minor injuries.

What Comes Next

The Ashland Police Department said the case is still active. Anyone with information that could help investigators is asked to call the department at 804-365-6140. Police have not announced a timeline for any further findings.

For now, the confirmed details remain limited to the charge, the injuries and the ongoing investigation. Families connected to Hanover Manor and others in the Ashland area can watch for updates from Ashland police as the department continues to review the crash and its aftermath.

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