Tunkhannock Twp., PA (March 16, 2025) – A crash on Route 115 in Tunkhannock Township claimed the lives of two people and left another injured on Saturday evening, March 15.
According to the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department, the accident happened when a vehicle carrying three occupants attempted to make a left turn from southbound Route 115 into a driveway. As the vehicle crossed the northbound lane, it was struck by a northbound car driven by 25-year-old Stephen Zazulak of Albrightsville.
The crash occurred in low-visibility conditions due to fog in the area. Emergency medical teams arrived at the scene and transported the occupants of the turning vehicle to Lehigh Valley Hospital-Pocono and Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center. Tragically, two passengers, 75-year-old Joann Keifer and 55-year-old Cherylynn Frantz, both of Blakeslee, succumbed to their injuries. The driver of that vehicle, 57-year-old Samuel Frantz, also of Blakeslee, sustained injuries and received medical care. Zazulak’s condition has not been disclosed. Authorities are continuing their investigation, with the department’s reconstruction team reviewing the circumstances of the crash.
Our sincere sympathies go out to the families of Joann Keifer and Cherylynn Frantz during this difficult time. We also hope for the full recovery of Samuel Frantz.
Fatal Car Accidents in Pennsylvania
Each year, thousands of people are killed or seriously injured in car crashes across Pennsylvania. In 2022 alone, over 1,100 people lost their lives in traffic-related incidents. Many of these collisions occur on highways and rural roads, where high speeds, visibility issues, and turning maneuvers increase risks.
Several factors contribute to deadly crashes on Pennsylvania roads:
- Low Visibility Conditions – Fog, heavy rain, and snow can severely reduce visibility, making it harder for drivers to see oncoming traffic or judge distances correctly.
- Left-Turn Collisions – Accidents often happen when vehicles turn left across traffic. Drivers may misjudge gaps, fail to see oncoming cars, or have their view obstructed by environmental factors.
- Speeding and Reaction Time – When drivers travel at high speeds, their ability to stop or react in time to avoid a crash is greatly reduced, especially in poor weather conditions.
- Failure to Yield Right of Way – Many intersection and driveway crashes occur when drivers do not correctly yield to oncoming vehicles, leading to dangerous T-bone or head-on collisions.
If you have lost a loved one in a preventable crash, it is important to seek legal guidance to understand your rights. Families may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, and other damages caused by the accident. Our compassionate Tunkhannock Township wrongful death attorney at The Slocum Firm can provide support and help navigate the legal process.
At The Slocum Law Firm, we understand how overwhelming it can be to lose a loved one in a tragic accident. Our team is committed to helping families seek justice and hold responsible parties accountable. If you have been affected by this crash or another serious accident, call us at 570-209-7376 for a free consultation. We are here to guide you through this difficult time and ensure your rights are protected.
