York Co, PA (March 20, 2025) – A fatal crash occurred early Thursday morning on Rte 30 in western York County, claiming the life of a 61-year-old man from Springettsbury Township. The incident happened at approximately 12:49 a.m. near the intersection of Lincoln Hwy W and Lake Rd in Paradise Township, according to the Northern York County Regional Police.
Authorities reported that Joel Holtzinger, of the 3300 block of Appleford Way, was driving westbound on Rte 30 when his Chevrolet Cruze crossed through the center turning lane and struck a tractor-trailer nearly head-on. The driver of the tractor-trailer, a 36-year-old man, attempted to avoid the collision but was unable to do so. Fortunately, he was not injured in the crash.
Emergency responders, including paramedics and fire crews, arrived promptly at the scene. Life-saving measures were performed on Holtzinger; however, he was pronounced dead at the scene by the York County Coroner’s Office. An autopsy was completed on Friday, with the cause and manner of death still pending.
The crash resulted in a fuel spill as one of the saddle tanks on the tractor-trailer ruptured, leaking approximately 15 to 20 gallons of diesel onto the road and into a nearby ditch. Firefighters and hazmat crews worked swiftly to contain the spill and clear the area. Traffic was temporarily halted as police managed the scene and cleanup efforts. The road was reopened shortly before 4 a.m.
The York County community is deeply saddened by the loss of Joel Holtzinger, and our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.
Fatal Tractor-Trailer Accidents and Wrongful Death Claims in York County
Tractor-trailer accidents have become a growing concern in York County, leading to a significant number of fatalities. In 2023 alone, there were at least 15 fatal crashes involving large trucks, with roads like Route 30 being particularly dangerous due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. These accidents often result in severe consequences, especially when smaller vehicles are involved. Efforts to improve road safety and trucking regulations are crucial to addressing this rising issue and reducing the risk of future tragedies.
When a fatal truck accident occurs, family members of the deceased may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim if the death was caused by negligence. This could include unsafe driving, improper maintenance, or other forms of misconduct by the truck driver or company. In Pennsylvania, family members such as a spouse, children, or parents can seek compensation for funeral costs, emotional distress, and loss of financial support. The statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim is generally two years from the date of the accident.
If you have lost a loved one in a fatal car accident in York County, the Pennsylvania wrongful death attorneys at The Slocum Law Firm are prepared to provide the legal support you deserve. With years of experience and a strong commitment to client advocacy, we work diligently to secure the compensation you are entitled to.
Call (570) 209-7376 today to arrange an initial consultation. We’re here to guide you through every step of the legal process and ensure your interests are represented with care and dedication.
