BURRELL TOWNSHIP, Pa. — A tragic crash Friday evening on State Route 22 claimed the life of a female passenger and left several others injured, according to the Pennsylvania State Police.
Authorities said troopers were called to the intersection of Resort Plaza Drive and State Route 22 just before 4 p.m. on September 5 after reports of a two-vehicle collision.
Sequence of Events
Preliminary investigation revealed that one driver, traveling eastbound on Route 22, allegedly ran a steady red light. At the same time, another vehicle was making a lawful left-hand turn from Resort Plaza Drive onto Route 22 under a green light.
The eastbound driver reportedly attempted to swerve and avoid the collision but was unable to do so. The impact was severe.
- The first vehicle overturned and skidded across the roadway before coming to rest on its driver’s side, facing south on Route 22.
- The second vehicle spun 180 degrees before stopping in the intersection.
Casualties and Injuries
The driver of the vehicle that ran the red light sustained only minor injuries. However, the occupants of the struck vehicle suffered far more serious consequences:
- The driver was airlifted to a Pittsburgh hospital for treatment.
- One passenger was also transported to Pittsburgh by ambulance.
- A second passenger was taken to a hospital in Indiana County.
- Tragically, a female passenger in the struck vehicle later died of her injuries. Her identity has not yet been released pending family notification.
Road Closures and Investigation
Both the eastbound and westbound lanes of Route 22 were closed for approximately three hours as police conducted crash reconstruction and cleared the roadway. Traffic was rerouted during the closure, creating significant delays in the area.
The Pennsylvania State Police have launched a full investigation to determine the circumstances leading to the crash, including whether speed, distraction, or impairment were contributing factors. Charges may be considered depending on the outcome of the inquiry.
Community Response
The fatal crash has shaken Burrell Township residents, as Route 22 has long been considered a dangerous stretch of road due to its heavy traffic and history of serious accidents.
Officials emphasized the importance of obeying traffic signals and remaining alert while driving. “This tragedy underscores how quickly lives can be changed when traffic laws are ignored,” a state police spokesperson said.
The investigation remains active, and additional details — including the identity of the deceased victim — will be released as they become available.
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