Father Seeks Roadside Memorial After Son’s Motorcycle Crash
FALLSTON, MD — Nearly five months after his 20-year-old son died in a motorcycle accident, Brad Hopkins addressed a Harford County District Court judge regarding a roadside memorial along Route 152.
The Zou family, residing nearby, alleged that Hopkins trespassed on their property while placing the memorial. They filed four peace orders against him, one for each family member. According to the judge, there was insufficient evidence to prove the signs at the memorial were on the Zous’ property, leading to the denial of all petitions.
Gavin Hopkins was riding northbound on Fallston Road when he lost control of his motorcycle at approximately 3:30 p.m. on March 21, according to Maryland State Police. He struck a mailbox and a guardrail before colliding with a tree. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Court records indicate the Zou family felt intimidated by the memorial and the numerous visitors paying their respects. Gavin’s sister, Laela Hopkins, emphasized the significance of the site, stating it is the only place to memorialize their brother.
The Maryland State Highway Administration removed the cross on July 31, citing safety regulations that prohibit roadside memorials. Hopkins stated that a highway maintenance engineer had initially given him permission for the memorial and expressed intentions to renew efforts for permanent placement.
The Zous’ attorney, T. Wray McCurdy, accused Hopkins of bullying the family, including their 13-year-old daughter, who acted as a translator during interactions. The minor testified in court regarding a confrontation, although it fell outside the timeframe for consideration under Maryland law.
The Zou family may appeal the judge’s ruling, but no indication has been given on their intentions to do so.