State College, PA (January 24, 2025) – A head-on collision Wednesday evening in the Centre Region left a 24-year-old woman from Cumberland County with serious injuries. The crash occurred around 5:45 PM on the 3600 block of East College Avenue, according to State College police.
Richard L. Wasson, 18, of Penn Township, was driving a Hyundai Santa Fe westbound when he crossed the centerline and collided head-on with a Saturn Vue driven by the woman. Both drivers were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash.
The woman sustained serious but not life-threatening injuries and was flown to UPMC Williamsport via medical helicopter for treatment. Wasson was transported to Mount Nittany Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries. He was cited on Thursday for driving on roadways laned for traffic. As of Thursday afternoon, he had not entered a plea.
Both lanes of East College Avenue were closed until about 7:25 PM while emergency crews worked to assist the injured and clear the scene. Pleasant Gap and Centre LifeLink EMS, along with fire companies from Pleasant Gap and Alpha, and police from Rockview and Spring Township, provided support at the scene.
Our thoughts are with the injured woman and her family as she recovers.
Head-On Collisions in Pennsylvania
Head-on collisions are among the most severe types of accidents, often resulting in serious injuries due to the force of impact. Major roadways like East College Avenue in Centre County see frequent crashes, particularly in areas with high traffic volumes or sharp curves.
According to data from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), College Township recorded 25 crashes with serious injuries between 2014 and 2023, the sixth-highest number among municipalities in Centre County. Common causes of head-on crashes include crossing centerlines, distracted driving, and speeding.
If you are injured in a head-on collision, seeking prompt medical attention, documenting the incident, and consulting with legal professionals are critical steps to protect your rights. Pennsylvania law allows victims to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from negligence.
For assistance and resources following a serious crash, contact Local Accident Reports. We are here to provide support and help you navigate the recovery process.