Fatal Crash on Route 33 Claims Life Amid Snowy Conditions

BUSHKILL TWP., Pa. — A fatal crash on Route 33 claimed the life of a driver late Thursday afternoon, prompting the response of the Northampton County coroner. The incident occurred around 4:22 p.m. near Mile Marker 11 in Bushkill Township, close to the Belfast exit.

According to Pennsylvania State Police, a car lost control, veered off the road, and collided with a tree. The coroner was dispatched to the scene, and while details regarding other potential injuries remain unclear, the single-vehicle crash has led to significant traffic disruptions.

Traffic in the northbound lanes of Route 33 was backed up beyond the Tatamy exit following the accident. As authorities worked to clear the incident, the roadway was temporarily reduced to one lane before reopening later in the evening. Local dispatchers reported that the poor driving conditions during the snowfall might have played a role in the accident.

Witnesses reported heavy snowfall starting earlier that afternoon, which affected visibility and road safety. One driver on the scene expressed shock at the sudden change in weather conditions, stating, “It came out of nowhere, yes. But you know, I mean, the roads are better now.” Another motorist noted that earlier conditions were manageable but expressed uncertainty about the roads’ state later in the day.

In addition to the Route 33 incident, snowy conditions contributed to other accidents in the region. In Lehigh County, a tractor-trailer overturned on Sell Road in Heidelberg Township, with the driver suffering minor injuries while unloading hay.

PennDOT crews have been actively treating roadways in anticipation of hazardous conditions. With temperatures dropping, authorities have advised motorists to exercise caution while driving throughout the week.

The investigation into the crash remains ongoing by Pennsylvania State Police, as they gather more information about the accident and its causes.