A late-night crash at the intersection of I-78 ramp and PA-61 in Tilden Township resulted in serious injuries for three individuals and significant damage to both vehicles involved. The incident, which occurred at approximately 10:16 p.m. on Tuesday, involved a 2009 Toyota Camry and a 2015 Freightliner Cascadia with a Vanguard National trailer.
According to the Pennsylvania State Police, the accident happened as the Toyota Camry, operated by an 18-year-old male from Wyomissing, was traveling southbound on SR61. The Freightliner, driven by a 37-year-old male from Allentown, was traveling north on SR61 and attempting to turn left onto the I-78 East on-ramp. Witnesses at the scene reported seeing the Camry traveling at a high rate of speed just prior to the collision.
The Camry struck the trailer of the Freightliner near its fourth axle on the passenger side, causing extensive damage to both vehicles. The Camry sustained heavy damage due to the force of the crash. Meanwhile, the trailer had disabling damage, rendering it inoperable on the scene.
As a result of the crash, the Camry’s driver, along with two passengers—a 17-year-old male from Reading and an unidentified male—suffered suspected serious injuries. All three were transported to Reading Hospital for emergency treatment. Their current conditions are unknown at this time. The truck driver was evaluated at the scene by emergency medical services but refused further transport to a hospital.
Multiple law enforcement and emergency response agencies assisted the Pennsylvania State Police with the crash investigation. This included the Pennsylvania State Police CARS Unit and Forensic Services Unit, which conducted a detailed on-site investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the crash.
State police have noted that this is still an active and ongoing investigation. Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has information about it to contact the Pennsylvania State Police at Hamburg. Witnesses are asked to reference incident number PA 24-1215274 when calling (610) 562-6885.
Further details, including the identities of all involved parties and the specific cause of the crash, are pending as the investigation continues.
