Dru Feeley Killed in Truck Accident on I-81 in Antrim Township, PA

Antrim Township, PA — December 15, 2024, Dru Feeley was killed in a truck accident at about 3:30 a.m. on Interstate 81 near the Zarger Road overpass.

Authorities said a 2005 Dodge Neon crashed into the back of a 2021 Peterbilt semi-truck at mile marker 6.9.

The Neon had been driving in the left lane before the truck changed lanes before the collision because there was a vehicle stopped in the shoulder, according to authorities.

Dru N. Feeley, 21, was pronounced dead at the scene after the crash, authorities said. The truck driver was not injured.

The accident is still under investigation, with authorities seeking dash camera footage of the crash from anyone who may have witnessed it.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

This crash underscores the risks inherent in lane changes on busy interstates, particularly at night. Semi-truck drivers must make such maneuvers cautiously, especially when other vehicles are nearby.

Authorities’ search for dashcam footage suggests there may be conflicting accounts or insufficient evidence to fully reconstruct the crash. Video evidence from the truck or other witnesses could clarify the timing and positioning of the truck’s lane change, as well as the approach of the other car.

The investigation should determine if the semi-truck changed lanes safely, with appropriate signals, before the crash.

Investigators also should be able to answer some questions about the stopped vehicle in the shoulder. It was the initial trigger for the semi-truck’s lane change. Investigators should assess whether the stopped vehicle was properly marked with hazard lights or reflective triangles. They also should determine if the vehicle’s presence in a high-speed area created additional hazards. Interstate 81 is a heavily traveled route, even at night. Was there any other traffic that might have restricted visibility or limited maneuvering space? Poor lighting or inclement weather (e.g., fog, rain) could have affected visibility and contributed to both the truck driver’s decision-making and the Neon driver’s inability to react.

The victim’s family must have plenty of questions about this crash. If authorities cannot provide them with the answers they need, perhaps they should consider seeking an independent probe of the collision.