Monday, May 25, 2026

Schuylkill County Driver Under Investigation After Passenger Dies Following Suspected DUI Crash in Berks County


A 23-year-old Pottsville man is suspected of driving under the influence following a single-vehicle crash early Sunday morning in Berks County that later claimed the life of his passenger.
According to Pennsylvania State Police at Reading, the crash occurred at approximately 1:56 a.m. on Sunday, May 24, 2026, along Bernville Road (SR 183), just north of North 4th Street in Bernville Borough.

Troopers said a black Tesla sedan operated by the Pottsville man was traveling southbound on SR 183 when the vehicle crossed into the northbound lane and struck a tree.

The passenger, identified as 23-year-old Keenan Cryts, suffered severe injuries in the crash and was transported to a nearby trauma center for treatment.

State Police said the driver is suspected of operating the vehicle under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. The investigation remains ongoing.

Authorities reported that the driver was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash, while Cryts was not wearing a safety restraint.

In an update released later Sunday, State Police said Cryts succumbed to his injuries at Reading Hospital at approximately 11:19 p.m.

Pennsylvania State Police were assisted at the scene by local fire and emergency medical service personnel. Following the fatality, the Berks County Coroner’s Office and the Berks County District Attorney’s Office also assisted in the investigation.

Pennsylvania State Police have not identified the driver as of this posting.    

No charges have been announced as of Sunday night. The investigation is continuing.