Bonnie Cornelious Obituary, Death News – Authorities in Franklin County, Pennsylvania, are investigating a fatal traffic incident that took place Saturday evening in Antrim Township, according to information released by the Pennsylvania State Police in Chambersburg.
The crash occurred around 6:42 p.m. on October 25 along Molly Pitcher Highway, a well-traveled stretch of U.S. Route 11 that runs through Franklin County. State Police said the collision involved two vehicles — a Honda Prologue and a Nissan Altima — near the intersection of South Washington Street and Molly Pitcher Highway.
According to the preliminary report, the Honda Prologue had come to a stop at a stop sign on South Washington Street and then proceeded into the intersection. At that moment, it entered the path of the northbound Nissan Altima, resulting in a significant collision. The impact caused major damage to both vehicles and led to an immediate emergency response from local police, fire, and medical crews.
The driver of the Nissan Altima, identified by authorities as 81-year-old Bonnie Cornelious of Willow Hill, was seriously injured in the crash. Emergency personnel provided first aid at the scene before transporting her to a nearby hospital for further treatment. Despite the efforts of medical staff, Cornelious later passed away as a result of her injuries, officials confirmed.
The driver of the Honda was evaluated at the scene and did not sustain any injuries. Police did not immediately release that individual’s name, as the investigation remains ongoing.
Troopers from the Pennsylvania State Police in Chambersburg were joined by local fire departments and emergency medical services as they worked to clear the roadway and assist those involved. The area surrounding the intersection was temporarily closed for several hours Saturday night while investigators documented the scene, gathered witness statements, and removed the damaged vehicles. Traffic was diverted to nearby routes until the roadway was fully reopened.
Authorities have not yet released information on potential contributing factors such as speed, visibility, or weather conditions at the time of the crash. However, investigators noted that the initial evidence suggests the Honda entered the intersection without full clearance, leading to the collision with the oncoming Nissan.
The Pennsylvania State Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Specialist (CARS) Unit is assisting with the investigation to determine the precise sequence of events. Their findings will help clarify whether any citations or additional actions will be taken in connection with the crash.
Local residents who live near the intersection of South Washington Street and Molly Pitcher Highway say the area has been the site of several accidents in recent years, primarily due to heavy traffic and limited visibility at certain times of day. Many have expressed hope that this latest tragedy will prompt discussions about improved signage, lighting, or intersection redesigns to enhance safety.
Community members have also expressed condolences for the family of Bonnie Cornelious, remembering her as a kind and active member of the Willow Hill community. Neighbors described her as a friendly individual who loved spending time with family and was known for her involvement in local activities.
State Police continue to urge drivers to exercise caution at all intersections, especially during evening hours when visibility can be reduced. They remind motorists to come to a complete stop, double-check for oncoming traffic, and proceed only when it is safe to do so.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional updates are expected as authorities complete their review of the evidence. Anyone who witnessed the collision or has dashcam footage from the area around the time of the incident is encouraged to contact the Pennsylvania State Police in Chambersburg to assist with the inquiry.
