SHREWSBURY TOWNSHIP, PA – A Maryland man was killed early Thursday morning in a high-speed crash that also triggered a hazardous propane leak, prompting an extensive emergency response.
Authorities identified the victim as 29-year-old Kasey Trent of Freeland, Maryland. Pennsylvania State Police responded to the crash at approximately 1:54 a.m. on Seltz Road (Route 851) near Country Club Road. Investigators determined that Trent lost control of his vehicle while navigating a left-hand curve at high speed, veering off the road before striking a tree and overturning.
The impact also damaged a gas line, leading to a significant propane leak. Emergency crews, including the York County Hazmat Team, were dispatched to assess the situation. Officials discovered that the crash had ruptured the valves of an underground propane tank, causing an ongoing leak.
To prevent further hazards, hazmat crews initiated a controlled burn-off of the propane, a process known as “flaring.” Officials stated that the operation was still ongoing as of 10:30 a.m. and could take several more hours. Some residents were displaced due to safety concerns, and the American Red Cross was called to provide assistance.
This was one of two fatal crashes in York County that morning. Earlier, at around 12:50 a.m., authorities responded to another deadly accident on Route 30, which temporarily shut down the roadway before reopening.
The investigation into the Shrewsbury Township crash remains ongoing as authorities work to determine if factors beyond excessive speed played a role. Further updates are expected as more details emerge.
