Erick Velez – Authorities in Luzerne County have released the identity of the man who lost his life in a motorcycle accident in Plains Township on Friday morning. Luzerne County Coroner Dion Fernandes confirmed that the victim was 37-year-old Erick Velez of Exeter. According to officials, Velez was critically injured in the collision and was transported to Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival.
The crash occurred on North River Street at the intersection of Hancock Street, an area near a Burger King restaurant. Reports indicate that the accident involved a motorcycle, driven by Velez, and a Jeep. Details regarding how the collision unfolded have not yet been fully determined. Both Plains Township police and Pennsylvania State Police have taken up the investigation to piece together what happened.
Emergency crews responded quickly to the scene following reports of the crash. Despite efforts to provide medical assistance, Velez’s injuries were too severe, and he could not be saved. The coroner later confirmed that his cause of death was the result of injuries sustained in the crash.
Authorities are now working to establish the sequence of events that led to the collision. Investigators are expected to review physical evidence from the scene, as well as statements from witnesses and the driver of the Jeep involved in the crash. As of now, officials have not disclosed whether any charges or citations may result from the incident, noting that the investigation is still ongoing.
News of Velez’s passing has left his community grieving. At 37, he was in the prime of his life, and his sudden death has deeply affected family, friends, and neighbors in Exeter. Motorcycle accidents are often particularly devastating due to the limited protection riders have compared to occupants of larger vehicles, and this case once again highlights the dangers motorcyclists face on busy roadways.
Local authorities have not yet provided further information on the identity of the Jeep’s driver or whether they sustained any injuries in the crash. Investigators will likely conduct a thorough review to determine factors such as vehicle speed, right of way, road conditions, and potential impairment.
This stretch of North River Street, where the accident occurred, is a well-traveled route through Plains Township, and the intersection at Hancock Street sees a steady flow of traffic. Crashes in such areas can happen quickly, often with tragic outcomes, as was the case in Friday’s incident.
The Luzerne County Coroner’s Office confirmed that Velez’s death was immediate and unavoidable after the crash, underscoring the force of the collision. Officials emphasized that more details would be shared once the investigation progresses and additional findings become available.
In the meantime, Plains Township police, state investigators, and the coroner’s office continue to coordinate their efforts to ensure a complete understanding of the circumstances. The loss of Erick Velez serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of roadway caution for both drivers and motorcyclists.
