Susan Spangler, Deloris Latshaw Obituary, Death – Two women lost their lives on Thursday morning when a train collided with their vehicle at a railroad crossing in Somerset County, Pennsylvania. According to Pennsylvania State Police, the fatal incident occurred around 10:30 a.m. in Rockwood Borough at the Bridge Street crossing.
The crash involved a CSX freight train and a vehicle occupied by two women. Investigators reported that the train struck the vehicle on the front driver’s side door, resulting in a deadly impact. Both women inside the vehicle died as a result of the crash. Authorities confirmed that none of the CSX train crew members were hurt during the incident.
The victims were identified as 67-year-old Susan Spangler and 85-year-old Deloris Latshaw, both residents of Somerset. State police did not disclose which of the two women was driving the vehicle at the time of the crash.
Police noted that the railroad crossing was functioning correctly, and all traffic control devices, such as lights and crossing gates, were in proper working condition when the crash took place. This suggests that the warning systems meant to prevent such accidents were operational, although the reason why the vehicle was on the tracks at the time of the train’s approach is still unknown.
Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene following the collision. One of the women was pronounced dead at the site of the crash, while the other was transported to Conemaugh Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead in the emergency room.
Authorities from the Pennsylvania State Police and local emergency services remained on the scene for several hours to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. The section of the railroad was temporarily closed as officials worked to gather evidence and assess damage. Investigators have not yet released further details on the vehicle’s movements leading up to the crash or any possible contributing factors.
Autopsies for both victims were scheduled for the following day, according to Somerset County Coroner Cullen Swank. The results may provide additional insight into the exact causes of death and help piece together what happened in the moments before the fatal impact.
The tragic incident has deeply affected the Rockwood community and surrounding areas. Local residents expressed sadness and shock upon hearing the news, especially given that both victims were longtime community members.
While train-related vehicle accidents are relatively rare, they can be devastating due to the sheer size and speed of freight trains. Safety experts often remind drivers to always approach railroad crossings with caution and to never attempt to cross when signals are active or a train is in sight.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging any witnesses or individuals with information about the crash to come forward to assist in providing a complete account of the events leading to this tragedy.