A 21-year-old Allentown man lost his life following a single-vehicle crash on Interstate 78 in Lehigh County on Thursday night. Authorities identified the victim as Edwin Noel Diaz, who died from injuries sustained in the accident that occurred near mile marker 78 in Upper Saucon Township.
The Lehigh County Coroner’s Office reported that the crash happened around 8:20 p.m. on the eastbound side of the highway. According to officials, Diaz was driving a vehicle that left the roadway under unclear circumstances and fell onto the lower level of the interstate. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene and transported Diaz to Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest, where he died early Friday morning.
State Police are currently investigating the incident to determine what caused the vehicle to veer off the road. Investigators will be looking into various potential factors, including speed, road conditions, driver distraction, and mechanical failure. As of Friday, no other vehicles were reported to be involved in the crash, and no witnesses have publicly come forward.
This tragic incident has raised concerns among residents and travelers who frequently use that stretch of I-78. The area where the crash occurred can be challenging for drivers, especially at night or during poor weather conditions. Officials have not indicated whether construction, signage, or roadway design may have played a role in the accident.
Friends and family of Diaz are mourning the sudden loss of a young life, remembering him as a vibrant individual with a future ahead of him. The community has expressed their condolences, and some have called for increased safety measures along that portion of the highway to prevent future tragedies. Supporters have taken to social media to share tributes and offer words of comfort to Diaz’s loved ones.
As the Pennsylvania State Police continue their investigation, they urge anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has relevant information to come forward. Authorities are working diligently to piece together the events leading up to the fatal accident in hopes of providing answers to Diaz’s family and ensuring safer roads for all drivers. Further details may be released as the investigation progresses.
