Glendon Borough, PA (June 16, 2025) — A tragic incident on Interstate 78 claimed the life of 33-year-old Tyler R. Kolaja of Hamburg, New Jersey, as he attempted to help move a disabled SUV late Monday night.
Incident Details: The collision occurred at approximately 10:15 p.m. on the eastbound side of I-78 near mile marker 74.3 in Glendon Borough, Northampton County. According to Pennsylvania State Police, Kolaja was pushing a Chevrolet Equinox that had run out of gas. A woman from New Jersey was inside the vehicle, steering while he pushed it along the right travel lane.
During the effort to move the SUV, an eastbound tractor-trailer struck the Equinox and a separate disabled tractor-trailer parked on the shoulder. Kolaja was fatally injured in the collision and pronounced dead at the scene. The woman steering the SUV was transported to St. Luke’s Anderson Hospital with injuries.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: The investigation is ongoing, and authorities will examine the lighting conditions at the time, the visibility of the disabled SUV, and whether hazard signals were in use. Investigators will also look into whether driver conduct contributed to the collision.
Pending the outcome of the investigation, the Kolaja family may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim to assist with funeral costs, loss of companionship, and future wages, as well as emotional distress.
Our thoughts are with Tyler Kolaja’s loved ones during this difficult time.
Source: WFMZ News