A high-speed crash on Route 22 in Hanover Township, Northampton County, Pennsylvania, resulted in the death of a passenger Thursday night, May 29, 2025. The Pennsylvania State Police have identified the victim as 27-year-old Joey Anthony Vega II, also known as “Boobie,” from Wind Gap, PA.
The fatal incident occurred when a 2013 Mercedes-Benz C300, traveling westbound at a high rate of speed, attempted to pass a 2015 Ford Escape on the right lane of the highway. According to the Pennsylvania State Police, the Mercedes sideswiped the Ford, causing the driver of the Ford to lose control. The Ford then veered off the road and struck a tree.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene to find Vega, who was the front-seat passenger in the Mercedes, suffering from severe injuries. He was pronounced dead at the scene from multiple blunt force trauma. The Northampton County Coroner’s Office ruled the manner of death accidental.
The driver of the Mercedes was transported to St. Luke’s Hospital in Bethlehem for treatment. Meanwhile, the Ford came to a stop in the left lane of Route 22 westbound. The crash led to the temporary closure of Route 22 westbound for several hours while police conducted a crash reconstruction investigation. The highway has since reopened.
Authorities have not released the identity of the Mercedes driver, but the investigation remains ongoing. The Pennsylvania State Police have urged anyone with information related to the crash to come forward and contact Trooper Nathan T. Branosky at [email protected]..
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) advises drivers to exercise caution on Route 22 and obey all traffic laws, especially in areas with heavy traffic and limited passing zones. Reckless driving and unsafe passing maneuvers not only risk the driver’s life but also endanger other road users.
This tragic incident highlights the dangers of speeding and improper lane changes on busy highways. It serves as a reminder for motorists to drive responsibly and stay alert to prevent fatal accidents.