A pre-dawn collision between a motorcyclist and a commercial trash truck on U.S. Route 322 in Swatara tragically claimed one life and triggered an in-depth investigation by local authorities.
At approximately 4:45 a.m. on July 23, 2025, a motorcycle traveling west on Route 322 collided with a trash truck at the intersection of Paxton Street and Witmer Drive in Swatara Township—resulting in a fatality and extensive roadway closures as investigators secured the scene.
Incident Overview
The crash occurred near the 7600 block of Paxton Street, forcing PennDOT to shut all westbound lanes between Mushroom Hill Road and Chambers Hill Road for several hours. The motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene, while the trash truck driver was transported to Hershey Medical Center for evaluation.
First responders arrived within minutes, using hydraulic rescue tools to free a trapped individual from the motorcycle wreckage. PennDOT’s 511PA system alerted motorists to significant westbound delays, while one eastbound lane remained open under controlled traffic signals. Local tow companies cleared debris by 8 a.m., allowing partial reopening of Route 322.
Ongoing Investigation
Swatara Township Police Department, alongside the Dauphin County Accident Reconstruction Team and the Dauphin County Coroner’s Office, leads the investigation. Evidence collection has included:
- Skid-mark measurements and roadway drag factor tests
- Photogrammetry surveys of impact angles
- Vehicle inspections documenting damage patterns
Investigators anticipate preliminary findings once lab analyses of brake-system components and helmet integrity tests conclude later this week.
Forensic Reconstruction Insights
Reconstruction experts use laser scanning to recreate the crash dynamics in 3D, identifying that the motorcycle entered the intersection at an estimated 50 mph, while the trash truck was negotiating a slight curve. Investigators will analyze whether truck blind-spot limitations or rider evasive maneuvers contributed to the collision.
Official Statements
Swatara Township Police Chief Laura Renshaw stated, “We are treating every piece of evidence with utmost scrutiny to determine causation. Additional information will be released pending the completion of our reconstruction analysis”.
PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll emphasized roadway safety: “While any decrease in traffic fatalities is encouraging, this tragic loss underscores that even one life lost is one too many. We will continue infrastructure improvements and educational outreach to prevent future incidents”.
Citizens with video or eyewitness accounts are encouraged to contact Swatara Township Police at (717) 564-2550 to assist with the investigation.
