Keturah Griffin Obituary, Death News – Authorities in Pennsylvania are investigating a tragic early-morning crash that claimed the life of a woman on November 24 along the Parkway East. The incident occurred at around 5:30 a.m. near mile marker 73 on I-376, close to the Hot Metal Bridge between the Oakland exit and the Squirrel Hill Tunnel. The collision involved two vehicles and resulted in a vehicle fire that shut down part of the roadway for hours.
When Pennsylvania State Police and local emergency responders arrived, they discovered two heavily damaged vehicles blocking the eastbound lanes. Aerial video captured by the KDKA Drone Team showed smoke rising from one of the cars involved. Investigators later learned that an Infiniti sedan had experienced mechanical trouble and became disabled in the roadway shortly before the crash. The driver stayed inside the car with the hazard lights activated and contacted a towing service for assistance.
As the disabled vehicle remained stopped on the interstate, an eastbound Ford F-150 pickup truck approached the area. The pickup struck the rear of the Infiniti, and the impact caused the sedan to catch fire. Witnesses reported that the pickup truck had changed lanes moments before the collision, which may have contributed to reduced visibility of the stopped car. Trooper Rocco Gagliardi noted that preliminary statements from witnesses described a “complete transition from one lane to another,” suggesting the driver may not have realized the sedan was directly ahead.
Immediately after the crash, the driver of the F-150 attempted to rescue the woman inside the burning vehicle. Two Pittsburgh police detectives who were driving through the area also stopped and rushed to help. Despite their efforts, the flames intensified too quickly, preventing them from reaching the driver. Emergency personnel later confirmed that the woman, identified as 40-year-old Keturah Griffin, died at the scene. The pickup driver sustained minor injuries and received treatment.
Authorities expressed sympathy for Griffin’s family and loved ones as they begin to cope with the sudden loss caused by the crash.
Highway Safety Concerns in Pennsylvania
Crashes like this highlight the dangers disabled vehicles face on busy, high-speed roads. In Pennsylvania, heavily traveled routes such as the Parkway East see frequent collisions, particularly during early morning or evening hours when visibility is limited and traffic patterns shift rapidly. Even with hazard lights on, a stopped vehicle may be difficult for approaching drivers to notice in time to avoid a collision.
Many secondary crashes happen when drivers become distracted or make last-second lane changes. Sudden transitions between lanes can lead to reduced reaction time, especially when another vehicle is unexpectedly stopped ahead. At interstate speeds, impacts often cause severe results, including fires or major structural damage, which can leave families dealing with devastating and unexpected loss.
Weather conditions can also play a significant role in roadway safety across Pennsylvania. Fog, rain, and snow frequently reduce visibility and make it more challenging for drivers to respond to hazards. Congested commuter routes further increase risks by creating inconsistent traffic flow and unexpected slowdowns. A disabled vehicle becomes especially vulnerable in such conditions, emphasizing the importance of driver awareness and caution.
Support After Fatal Crashes
Families affected by deadly traffic incidents often experience emotional shock as well as financial burdens related to funeral arrangements, medical costs, and the loss of household support. In some cases, families may seek legal guidance to better understand their options and ensure their rights are protected throughout the investigative and insurance processes.
Those seeking assistance after losing a loved one in a Pennsylvania crash can speak with a professional who specializes in wrongful death claims and can help review the circumstances surrounding the incident, gather evidence, and communicate with involved agencies.
If you need help or have questions following a serious accident, support is available.
