Driver Killed in Crash Involving Police, EMS Vehicles Was DUI

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According to Pennsylvania State Police, a Mercedes sedan was traveling the wrong way on Route 283 East in Lancaster County on the night of February 21st when it struck an EMS vehicle and then collided head-on with a State Police vehicle. The driver of the Mercedes was killed in the crash, and the occupants of the police and EMS vehicles were injured and transported to the hospital. Authorities have determined the Mercedes driver was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident.

Why it matters

This tragic crash highlights the dangers of drunk driving and the risks it poses to first responders and other motorists on the roads. It also raises questions about safety protocols and potential improvements to prevent wrong-way driving incidents in the future.

The details

State Police say the Mercedes sedan was traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes of Route 283 when it first struck the EMS vehicle, then continued on to collide head-on with the State Police vehicle. The occupants of the EMS vehicle were uninjured and remained at the scene to provide aid, while the occupants of the police vehicle were transported to Lancaster General Hospital with injuries.

• The multi-vehicle crash occurred on the night of February 21, 2026.

What’s next

Authorities will continue their investigation into the cause of the crash and the driver's impairment, and will likely pursue charges against the deceased driver's estate.