A tragic chain-reaction crash involving dozens of vehicles shut down a major stretch of Interstate 79 in Butler County on Friday, leaving one person dead and nine others hospitalized, according to Pennsylvania State Police.
Authorities say the incident unfolded late Friday morning on Interstate 79 northbound in Jackson Township, where rapidly changing weather and hazardous road conditions led to multiple crashes involving at least 25 vehicles. An additional 20 vehicles were stranded on the highway as emergency crews worked to manage the scene and assist those involved.
The victim has been identified as 18-year-old Evan Gingo of Pittsburgh. Officials confirmed that Evan was a freshman at Slippery Rock University, a loss that has deeply affected the campus community. His passing marks a heartbreaking outcome to what officials described as a sudden and dangerous roadway situation.
Nine people were transported to local hospitals with injuries. Authorities did not release details about their conditions as of Friday afternoon. No further fatalities were reported.
The crash prompted authorities to close both northbound and southbound lanes of I-79 between Exit 78 and Exit 88 starting around 10:30 a.m. The highway remained closed for several hours as crews cleared vehicles and treated icy conditions, reopening around 4 p.m.
Among those caught in the chaos were Wendy Graff and her husband, who were traveling in a dump truck at the time. Graff recalled seeing brake lights ahead and vehicles suddenly losing control.
She described cars, SUVs, and tractor-trailers sliding and stopping at odd angles across the roadway and nearby hillsides. According to Graff, the dangerous conditions developed with little warning.
“It seemed fine at first,” she said, explaining that only light snow was visible earlier in the drive. “Then suddenly, the road was completely snow-covered and icy. We slid for a long distance, and it all happened very fast.”
Police say weather conditions changed rapidly, contributing to reduced traction and limited reaction time for drivers. Investigators continue to examine the sequence of events and road conditions to determine exactly how the crashes unfolded.
Traffic was detoured off the interstate onto State Route 19 through Zelienople, causing significant delays and congestion throughout the borough for much of the day.
This devastating incident highlights the dangers of winter driving, especially when conditions shift unexpectedly. Authorities are reminding drivers to slow down, remain alert, and prepare for sudden weather changes—particularly on highways where speed and volume increase the risk.
As the investigation continues, thoughts and condolences are being shared for Evan Gingo’s family, friends, and the Slippery Rock University community, as well as for all those injured and impacted by Friday’s events.