Multiple people were hospitalized following a five-vehicle crash that occurred Wednesday, June 25, at the intersection of Pottsville Pike (Route 61) and Zweizig Road in Perry Township, according to a Pennsylvania State Police crash report.
The incident happened when a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder (Unit 1), traveling north on Route 61, attempted to make a left turn onto Zweizig Road. According to police, the vehicle had been stopped in a left-turn lane at a steady red light, which turned green, prompting the driver to proceed through the intersection. However, a southbound 2024 Kenworth T680 (Unit 2) was traveling through the intersection under a steady green light in the opposite direction and collided with the Pathfinder.
Police said the Pathfinder failed to yield the right-of-way and entered the path of the oncoming tractor-trailer. The front of Unit 2 struck the right side of Unit 1, causing both vehicles to travel off the west side of Route 61. The Pathfinder struck a fence with its rear end and came to rest facing north. The Kenworth continued forward, striking a traffic signal pole, another fence, and then colliding with three parked vehicles in a lot next to a garage at 1540 Pottsville Pike.
The impact pushed the parked vehicles into the building. The Kenworth came to final rest just outside the garage, facing Unit 2, while the Pathfinder remained on the west side of the intersection. The three parked vehicles came to rest on the property in various positions.
All three occupants of the Pathfinder were transported to Reading Hospital for treatment of serious injuries. Emergency medical services were provided by Northern Berks EMS, Hamburg EMS, and Muhlenberg Area Ambulance Association.
According to State Police, the driver of Unit 1 was cited for failing to yield the right-of-way while entering the intersection.
Police said the investigation is ongoing.