A heartbreaking update has been shared by authorities in Hermitage, Pennsylvania, after a pedestrian struck in a serious traffic accident last week died from his injuries. The crash, which happened on Wednesday, November 12, around 6 p.m., has now become a fatal crash investigation as police work to uncover exactly what led to the tragedy.
Officials identified the victim as 44-year-old George Horbatuck of Wheatland. According to Hermitage Police Chief Adam Piccirillo, officers rushed to the 1100 block of Mercer Avenue shortly after the initial 911 call came in. It was early evening, a time when visibility is often low and traffic is still heavy from the commute home. At the scene, responders found Horbatuck suffering from severe injuries after being hit by a vehicle, and immediate medical assistance was provided.
Early findings from investigators shed some light on the moments leading up to the crash. Horbatuck was reportedly walking northbound while using the southbound shoulder of Mercer Avenue. Experts often remind pedestrians to walk facing oncoming traffic when sidewalks are not available, as this increases visibility and reaction time. In this case, Horbatuck was walking in the same direction as the vehicle that struck him, a factor police say may have played a role in the tragic outcome.
The driver involved has been identified as a 57-year-old man from West Middlesex who was traveling southbound on Mercer Avenue at the time of the crash. Investigators are reviewing multiple factors, including lighting conditions, vehicle speed, and possible distractions. They are also analyzing physical evidence from the scene to understand how the collision occurred and whether any traffic violations or negligence contributed to the incident.
Horbatuck was taken by ambulance to a nearby hospital before being transferred to a regional trauma center due to the seriousness of his injuries. He remained under critical care for several days, but despite the efforts of medical teams, he succumbed to his injuries on Saturday, three days after the crash. His death has shifted the police investigation from an injury crash to a fatal accident case, prompting a deeper review of all evidence.
Chief Piccirillo emphasized that the investigation remains active and thorough. No charges have been filed at this time, as authorities continue to piece together the full picture of what happened. Further updates are expected as the investigation reaches its conclusion and officials work to provide answers to Horbatuck’s family and the community.
