PHILIPSBURG – An accident along US Route 322 claimed the life of a Morrisdale man on Tuesday.
According to the state police in Philipsburg, John R. Batcho, 65, was traveling west on US Route 322. About a quarter of a mile east of the state police barrracks, he drifted off the right side of the road and entered a ditch. He traveled along the ditch where he struck a concrete culvert head-on. His vehicle overturned, causing Batcho to be ejected from the vehicle. He came to rest about 20 feet west of the vehicle. He was declared dead at the scene by Centre County Coroner Scott Sayers. Police said he was not wearing a seat belt.
His passenger, Harry Jones of West Decatur was transported to Mt. Nittany Medical Center by ambulance for treatment of minor injuries. Police said he was wearing a seat belt.
Troopers were assisted at the scene by Reliance Volunteer Fire Company and Moshannon Valley Emergency Medical Services.