A serene Friday evening in Edinboro was shattered by tragedy when a violent crash claimed the life of a 79-year-old Meadville woman, sending shockwaves through the community and prompting a major police investigation.
The incident unfolded just before 6:30 p.m. on Route 99, a crucial local thoroughfare, near the intersection with Harrison Drive. The call for help summoned a fleet of emergency responders from multiple local departments who raced to the scene with lights flashing. What they discovered was a dire situation: an unresponsive victim trapped within the wreckage.
First responders immediately initiated lifesaving protocols before urgently transporting the woman to UPMC Hamot, a regional trauma center in Erie. Despite the exhaustive and heroic efforts of both first responders and hospital staff, her injuries were too severe. Erie County Coroner Lyell Cook confirmed the devastating news: Loretta Dobos of Meadville was pronounced deceased at the hospital shortly before 7:15 p.m.
In the aftermath of the fatal collision, the Pennsylvania State Police made the decision to completely close a significant stretch of Route 99 to ensure a meticulous and unimpeded investigation. The closure extended from Crane Road to just before the entrance of the Edinboro Cemetery, forcing motorists to find alternate routes for several hours as crash reconstruction teams meticulously documented the scene, collecting evidence under the glare of generator-powered lights.
As the community grapples with this sudden loss, many questions remain unanswered. The circumstances that led to the crash are still under an active and thorough investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police. Authorities have not yet released any preliminary details regarding potential causes or whether any other vehicles were involved.
The death of Loretta Dobos leaves a family in mourning and a community reflecting on the fragile nature of life. The investigation continues as officials work to piece together the final moments that led to this heartbreaking outcome on a quiet stretch of road.
