A tragic crash in Franklin Township on Wednesday afternoon claimed the life of 33-year-old Tawnyrae Shook of Unityville. State police confirmed that the fatal accident occurred on German Road near Bomboy Road, a rural area that had become treacherous due to winter weather conditions. Emergency responders said the roadway was coated with snow and ice at the time, creating extremely slippery conditions for drivers.
According to officials, the crash happened around 3:20 p.m. as Shook was traveling north in a 2021 Kia Seltos. Investigators said she appeared to lose control of the SUV while trying to navigate a downhill right-hand curve. The combination of the curve, slippery pavement, and reduced traction caused the vehicle to leave the roadway.
Once off the road, Shook’s vehicle continued forward and struck a tree head-on. The impact caused catastrophic damage to the front of the SUV. State police noted that Shook had been wearing her seatbelt, but the force of the crash still resulted in severe injuries. First responders arrived quickly and worked to free her from the vehicle before rushing her to UPMC Williamsport for emergency treatment.
Despite the rapid medical response, the Lycoming County Coroner’s Office reported that Shook succumbed to her injuries at 4:19 p.m. Her death has deeply affected the Unityville community, where she was known by many. The crash serves as another reminder of the dangers posed by rapidly changing winter weather, especially on rural roads that can become icy with little warning.
Authorities kept the area closed for a period of time as investigators documented the scene and assessed the conditions that led to the accident. Troopers examined the curve, the roadway surface, and the final resting position of the vehicle to piece together the sequence of events. No other vehicles were involved, and police said there was no indication of impairment or reckless driving.
As winter conditions continue across the region, officials are urging drivers to slow down, increase following distances, and use extra caution when approaching curves, hills, and untreated roadways. Shook’s tragic death underscores how quickly a routine drive can turn dangerous when snow and ice are present, even for drivers who are wearing their seatbelts and following the rules of the road.
