A Falls Church man pleads guilty to a hit-and-run crash on I-395

A Falls Church has admitted to leaving the scene afterward attacked a motorcyclist on I-395 earlier this year.

Fullas Abebe, 45, pleaded guilty yesterday (Thursday) to a charge of hit-and-run in Arlington County Circuit Court.

A plea deal recommends that Abebe serve a prison sentence of one day to six months. Any sentence imposed by Judge Daniel Lopez would otherwise be limited to five years of active confinement.

Abebe was initially charged with failing to stop at the scene of an accident causing injury – a Class 5 felony that carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. state law.

Video of the incident, shared on

After coming to a complete stop for a moment, the gray Honda Odyssey moves into another lane before quickly accelerating away from the crash.

“Mr. Abebe, the driver, did not remain at the scene, exit his vehicle, leave his information or attempt to assist the victim as required by law,” a statement of facts said.

A police officer arrived on scene to find the victim’s motorcycle on the ground and witnesses treating his serious injuries, the statement said. He was taken to a local hospital and treated for severe rash and spinal fractures.

Make that 12:38, of course.

— Dave Statter (@STATter911) May 26, 2024

Meanwhile, fellow motorcyclists riding behind the crash appeared to give chase to the fleeing driver. Law enforcement officials were able to locate Abebe later that day thanks to “information provided by a witness to the crash,” Virginia State Police said.

When officers arrived at his residence, Abebe “appeared to be intoxicated,” the statement of facts said. However, no investigation into drunk driving was initiated.

According to the document, Abebe told officers, “Did I kill him? He hit the brakes on me. Did I kill him? You might as well lock me up.”

When police noticed that Abebe’s vehicle was damaged and the airbags had deployed. He also had an injury to his leg.

The annual Rolling to Remember motorcycle rally was held over the weekend of the crash, with a large gathering at the Pentagon North Parking Lot that morning. It was not immediately clear whether the victim was a participant.

Abebe’s sentencing is scheduled for January 17 at 1 p.m