BETHLEHEM, Pa. – A crash in Bethlehem left three people injured and two vehicles heavily damaged Thursday afternoon after a car reportedly drove the wrong way on Route 378.
City police say that at approximately 12:25 p.m., officers responded to a report of a serious two-vehicle crash in the area of New Street and Elizabeth Avenue.
Upon arrival, officers found two heavily damaged vehicles.
Rich Rolen | for WFMZ-TV
One of the vehicles, believed to be the one that caused the crash, contained a single occupant who was trapped inside while the vehicle was actively on fire, according to officials.
The second vehicle contained two occupants, police said.
Authorities say that as a result of the collision, a utility pole was severed, causing live electrical wires to fall onto the roadway and creating an additional hazard for emergency responders and the public.
Members of the Bethlehem Police Department, Bethlehem Fire Department, and Bethlehem EMS immediately began providing aid to the involved parties while securing the scene, officials said.
Three people were taken to local hospitals for treatment, according to police. There are no updates on their conditions at this time.
Investigators determined that the offending vehicle may have been observed entering Route 378 Northbound from the wrong direction using the Main Street ramp shortly before the crash occurred.
The investigation is currently being conducted by members of the Bethlehem Police Department Patrol Division, Criminal Investigations Division, and the Major Accident Reconstruction Team (MART).
The area of New Street and Elizabeth Avenue remains closed while emergency personnel conduct the investigation and utility crews address the damaged pole and electrical lines, officials said.
Motorists are asked to avoid the area and seek alternate routes.
Police say that once the initial investigation is completed, the Northampton County District Attorney’s Office will be consulted to determine whether criminal charges are warranted.