Authorities Release Details of Wrong Way Crash on Interstate 80

Aly Delp

Aly Delp

Published October 1, 2018 4:45 am
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CLINTON TWP., Pa. (EYT) — Police have released the details of a crash that occurred Friday night in Clinton Township when a driver entered Interstate 80 going the wrong direction and crashed into an oncoming vehicle.

(Photos provided by Clintonville Volunteer Fire Chief Gerry Rae)

According to Franklin-based State Police, around 8:20 p.m. on Friday, September 28, 29-year-old Robert S. Barger, of Emlenton, was operating a 2010 Hyundai Elantra when he entered Interstate 80 westbound traveling east in Clinton Township.

Clintonville Volunteer Fire Department Chief Gerry Rae told exploreClarion.com, “The driver proceeded around 1/4 mile on I-80, the wrong way, before striking a pickup. After striking the pickup, the driver continued down the road 1/4 to 1/2 mile and fled the scene leaving 80 on foot.”

Police said Barger struck a 2018 Ford F-150 operated by 74-year-old James C. Conner, of Newcomerstown, Ohio, causing disabling damage to both vehicles.

When police arrived on the scene, Barger could not be located.

As Gerry’s son, Clintonville Assistant Fire Chief Grant Rae, was traveling to the scene, he spotted an individual walking along I-80 East, about one mile from the crash scene on the east side.

Chief Rae said, “Grant pulled over and got the guy to stop until state police arrived.”

A release issued by Franklin-based State Police indicates that the accident was DUI-related. Charges are expected to be filed upon the return of BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) test results.

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Conner was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash and was not injured. Barger also escaped injury.

Chief Rae said that the traffic at the accident scene continued to flow, with only one lane being closed.

The scene was cleared around 9:45 p.m.

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