Fayette County, PA (November 10, 2025) – A devastating crash on Route 40 claimed the lives of three people Monday evening, according to Pennsylvania State Police. The collision involved a tractor-trailer and two passenger vehicles, resulting in extensive roadway damage, a fire in a nearby wooded area, and the closure of the highway for several hours.
Accident Details: Troopers report that the crash occurred near Laurel Road in Henry Clay Township, not far from Youghiogheny River Lake, an area known for its steep grades, tight curves, and heavy truck traffic.
According to preliminary findings, a tractor-trailer traveling eastbound crossed into the westbound lanes and crashed head-on into a Ford pickup truck. The force of that collision pushed the pickup into the path of a Chevrolet Express van, resulting in a second head-on impact.
The drivers of the tractor-trailer and the pickup, along with the front-seat passenger in the van, all died at the scene. Authorities identified them as:
- Delroy Henry, 66, of Hollywood, Florida (tractor-trailer driver)
- Nikki Jo Rugg, 31, of Markleysburg, Pennsylvania (pickup driver)
- Michael Brown, 34, of Martinsburg, West Virginia (Chevrolet passenger)
Five additional passengers inside the Chevrolet were taken to area hospitals for treatment.
Investigation: State Police continue to investigate why the tractor-trailer crossed into opposing lanes. As part of the reconstruction process, investigators will analyze:
- Scene evidence. Investigators will examine skid marks, impact points, and debris distribution to determine vehicle movements.
- Mechanical condition of the tractor-trailer. Investigators will examine the condition of the tractor-trailer, including the brakes and steering systems, given the steep downhill grade.
- Roadway characteristics. Law enforcement will examine the road conditions, including the incline, curve radius, and shoulder width.
- Driver statements and witness accounts, Firsthand accounts of the accident from witnesses and passing motorists are essential.
- Event data recorders. If available, these devices can be used to determine speed, braking, and steering input before impact.
Accident reconstruction is often utilized in cases involving large trucks on steep grades, helping investigators determine whether speed, mechanical failure, or human error contributed to the vehicle’s lane departure.
Many truck drivers reportedly use the road as a shortcut to avoid tolls. Fayette County Coroner Dr. Bob Baker, who responded to the scene, expressed serious concerns about the road’s suitability for heavy commercial vehicles.
Although the investigation is ongoing, the district attorney has indicated that criminal charges are unlikely to be filed.
Legal Considerations: On steep, winding mountain highways, truck drivers must maintain lower speeds, use proper braking techniques, and remain in control of their vehicle at all times. Failure to do so can constitute negligence.
This tragedy also raises broader questions about the roadway itself and whether local or state authorities were aware of ongoing safety risks on this stretch of Route 40.
Under certain circumstances, if a roadway is shown to be dangerously configured and the responsible government agencies are aware of ongoing hazards but fail to take reasonable corrective action, there may be grounds for arguing partial governmental responsibility.
If the investigation concludes that negligence contributed to the crash, the families of the deceased may have grounds to bring a wrongful death. The injured may be able to file personal injury claims.
My deepest condolences go out to the loved ones of those who lost their lives, and I wish strength and healing to the survivors recovering in local hospitals.
Source: CBS News