Sugarcreek Borough Police responded to the report of a two vehicle head on collision in the 4000 block of U.S. 322 on April 23, 2021 at 10:15 pm.
Upon arrival officers reported to the Toyota RAV4 with a driver still inside the vehicle. The driver, Robert Deal Jr, 54 of Erie, was found unresponsive with no pulse. Robert Deal Jr. was later pronounced deceased at the scene.
Officers also spoke briefly with the driver of the Dodge van. He stated that he was having problems with breathing. James Lytle, 68 of Franklin, later passed away while firefighters were attempting to extricate him from his vehicle. The female passenger of the van was taken to UPMC Seneca with suspected serious injuries.
The female passenger stated that they (James and her) had been returning from an evening out when the vehicle (referring to the RAV4) crossed over the double yellow lane dividing line striking their vehicle head on.
The County Coroner was called to the scene to assist with the investigation.
Sugarcreek Police gathered witness statements and collected evidence from the scene. Sugarcreek Borough Police will release further information once the investigation has been completed.
Assisting at the scene was Rocky Grove and Reno Volunteer Fire Departments and Community Ambulance Service.