The fatal crash occurred at approximately 6:41 a.m. on May 22, 2026, along Interstate 81 North at mile marker 140.3 in Hazle Township, Luzerne County near the Schuylkill County line. Troopers identified the deceased as Jesus Montell Rincon, 58, of Clayton, Pennsylvania.
According to the crash report, Rincon's 2024 Volvo tractor-trailer was disabled on the shoulder of the interstate. While he was outside the vehicle, a 2008 Toyota Camry traveling northbound on Interstate 81 entered the shoulder and struck him.
State Police said the Camry, driven by Jason Cruz, 22, of Hampton, Virginia. The impact also caused disabling damage to both vehicles. The Toyota eventually came to rest on the right shoulder of the highway.
Rincon was pronounced dead at the scene. Troopers reported that Cruz was not injured in the crash and refused transportation from emergency responders.
The crash remains under investigation by Pennsylvania State Police at Hazleton.