Pennsylvania Woman Dies After Losing Control on Parkway East and Plunging Into Monongahela River in Pittsburgh
PENNSYLVANIA — A 31-year-old Pittsburgh woman died Thursday afternoon after her vehicle veered off Parkway East and crashed into the Monongahela River, triggering a large emergency response along the riverfront and shutting down traffic near the scene as rescue crews worked against the clock.
Car Leaves Parkway East and Enters River
According to authorities, the crash happened shortly before 4:30 p.m. when the woman’s vehicle traveled off the roadway and went over a concrete barrier on the right side of Parkway East. The car then plunged into the Monongahela River near the 900 block of Second Avenue, between the 10th Street Bridge and the Birmingham Bridge. State police said it remains unclear how the vehicle was able to surmount the barrier before entering the river.
Victim Identified by Medical Examiner
The Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the victim as Jacinta Stevens, 31, of Pittsburgh’s West End. Officials confirmed she was the sole occupant of the vehicle at the time of the crash. The vehicle involved was later identified as a 2013 Ford Explorer, according to a state police crash synopsis.
Rescue Divers Pull Driver From Vehicle
Pittsburgh emergency crews, including water rescue divers, responded quickly after reports of the vehicle entering the river. Pittsburgh EMS Chief Amera Gilchrist said divers were able to reach the vehicle, pull Stevens from the driver’s seat, and use a basket system to remove her from the water.
Rescue teams performed life-saving efforts at the scene, and Stevens was transported in critical condition to UPMC Presbyterian Hospital.
Woman Pronounced Dead After Transport
Despite extensive rescue and medical efforts, Stevens later died from her injuries. Officials did not specify how long the vehicle remained submerged before divers reached her, but emphasized that crews acted as rapidly as conditions allowed. Divers later re-entered the water to assist with recovery operations and to ensure no additional hazards remained.
Investigation Ongoing
Pennsylvania State Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, including what caused Stevens to lose control and how the vehicle crossed the concrete barrier. No other vehicles were reported to be involved. Traffic in the area was impacted during the response as emergency vehicles lined the parkway and riverbank.
This tragic incident highlights the dangers drivers face along high-speed corridors near waterways, especially during winter conditions. For continued coverage of breaking news and public safety stories from across the U.S., stay connected with SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com and share your thoughts with our readers.
