Teen Killed in Route 422 Police Chase Identified

Family and friends mourn the loss of the 18-year-old driver who brought "laughter and light to everyone around him."

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Zachery Carbo, an 18-year-old resident of Norristown, Pennsylvania, was killed in a police chase on Route 422 last weekend. Carbo was driving a Kia eastbound when state police attempted to pull the vehicle over for traffic violations. The vehicle did not pull over, sparking the chase, which ended in a crash where Carbo was declared dead at the scene. Three other teenage passengers were also injured in the incident.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the dangers of high-speed police chases and the devastating impact they can have on young lives and local communities. It also raises questions about police pursuit policies and whether alternative approaches could be taken to de-escalate such situations without resorting to dangerous chases.

The details

According to state police, Carbo was driving eastbound on Route 422 in Limerick Township when officers attempted to pull him over for traffic violations. Carbo did not stop, leading to a chase that continued into Upper Merion Township, where the vehicle crashed into a concrete road barrier. Carbo was declared dead at the scene, while three other male teenage passengers were injured in the crash. The investigation into the incident remains ongoing.

  • The incident occurred in the early morning hours of Saturday, February 14, 2026.
  • Carbo was declared dead at the scene of the crash.

The players

Zachery Carbo

An 18-year-old resident of Norristown, Pennsylvania, who was killed in the police chase and crash on Route 422.

Krista Waits

A family friend of Carbo's who described him as a "sweet, kind, and funny young man who brought laughter and light to everyone around him."

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What they’re saying

“I'm literally in shock. I have to keep moving forward. I have 5 other kids that need me, my mother, and husband. Your thoughts and prayers are welcome in our time of need.”

— Carbo's mother (Social media post)

“Zachary was a sweet, kind, and funny young man who brought laughter and light to everyone around him. He was fun-loving, forgiving, and deeply devoted to his brothers and sisters, whom he loved very much. His caring heart and joyful spirit touched many lives, and his absence leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of all who knew him.”

— Krista Waits, Family friend (GoFundMe)

What’s next

The investigation into the incident remains ongoing, and details about Carbo's funeral services have not yet been announced.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the need for law enforcement agencies to carefully review their pursuit policies and explore alternative approaches that prioritize public safety and de-escalation, especially when dealing with young drivers. It also highlights the profound impact that the loss of a vibrant young life can have on a community.