Tragedy in Coleridge: Fatal Highway Crash Claims Life of Charles Potosnyak
COLERIDGE, PA — A moment of misjudgment turned deadly Wednesday afternoon when 68-year-old Charles Potosnyak attempted to merge onto the highway in his Buick sedan and was struck by an oncoming semi-truck. The collision, described by officials as “devastating,” left Potosnyak dead at the scene and has sparked new concerns over traffic safety in the tight-knit Coleridge community.
It was a split-second decision—one that countless drivers make every day. But in this case, the timing was tragically off. Authorities say Potosnyak’s vehicle entered the highway at an angle and speed that gave the oncoming truck driver no time to react. The semi, hauling freight through the region, collided with the Buick at full speed. The impact crushed the front half of Potosnyak’s car and sent debris scattering across the roadway.
When first responders from Laurel EMS arrived, they found Potosnyak unresponsive, trapped in the wreckage. Despite their immediate efforts, he was pronounced dead on site. According to state troopers, Potosnyak was not wearing a seatbelt—a decision that may have cost him his life.
As for the truck driver, details remain scarce. Officials have confirmed that he was transported to a nearby hospital for evaluation, but have not released information regarding his condition. Toxicology tests and further assessments are pending as part of the routine post-crash protocol.
Investigators from the Pennsylvania State Police and the Department of Transportation are now combing over the intersection and surrounding roadways for clues as to what caused the crash. Dashcam footage, skid marks, weather conditions, and potential obstructions are all being examined.
“Was this a case of distraction, a blind spot, or something else? That’s what we’re trying to determine,” said Trooper Glenn Davies. “This area has been flagged before for limited visibility during certain times of day. We’ll be looking at everything—from roadway design to vehicle mechanics—to piece together the full picture.”
Locals say the intersection where the crash occurred is known to be challenging, especially for older drivers. Longtime resident Marla Jensen described it as “just dangerous enough to make you hesitate every time.” Others have echoed her concerns, calling for improved signage, better lighting, and even speed reductions in the merging zone.
Meanwhile, the community of Coleridge is reeling from the loss. Charles Potosnyak was a familiar face around town—a retiree who spent much of his time gardening, visiting with neighbors, and enjoying local baseball games. Friends say he was a quiet, kind-hearted man who never hesitated to lend a hand.
“He was one of those people who just made the neighborhood feel like home,” said neighbor Joseph Ortiz. “You’d see him out front every morning with a coffee cup in one hand and a rake in the other. It’s just unreal to think he’s gone.”
A small memorial of flowers and candles now rests at the edge of the crash site, and a community vigil is being planned for this weekend in his honor.
As the investigation continues, the tragic loss of Charles Potosnyak serves as a sobering reminder of how fragile life is—and how quickly it can be taken away. A seatbelt left unused. A moment’s miscalculation. A road that may need fixing. These are the elements of a tragedy that no one in Coleridge will soon forget.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Charles’s family and loved ones during this heartbreaking time. May he rest in peace—and may his death lead to meaningful changes that prevent future loss