The accident victims were identified as David M. Cooney, 21, of Dagus Mines and Alice U. Workman, 59, of Weedville. Both were transported to the Elk Regional Medical Center for treatment. Cooney and Workman were wearing their seatbelts at the time of the accident.
Cooney was traveling northbound on the Million Dollar Highway and passing four other vehicles, as he approached the crest of the hill. Workman was traveling southbound and also approaching the crest of the hill.
Workman observed the Cooney vehicle in her lane and attempted to swerve rightward in order to avoid being struck but wasn’t able to do so. The two vehicles struck each other.
After impact, the Cooney vehicle rotated approximately 90 degrees counterclockwise and traveled approximately 180 feet northeast and crossed the roadway. The Cooney vehicle then struck a building with its rear, where it came to a rest on its wheels.
After impact, the Workman vehicle traveled for approximately 150 feet south along the west berm of the Million Dollar Highway. It then struck a wooden split rail fence. Afterward it came to a rest on its wheels, facing southwest.
Cooney was charged with the following violations: limitations on driving on the left side of the roadway; no passing zones; driving on roadways laned for traffic; careless driving and reckless driving.
State police were assisted by the Fox and Jay Township and St. Marys fire departments, the Fox Township Ambulance and D&T Towing.