Northumberland County, Pa. — A devastating crash Sunday evening, September 28, 2025, claimed the lives of two children and a horse, while leaving several others seriously injured after a car collided with a horse-drawn buggy on State Route 225.
Pennsylvania State Police at Stonington report the crash happened around 8:08 p.m. near Howard Taylor Road. Investigators say a 2014 Mini Cooper, driven by 39-year-old John M. Koperna Jr. of Pottsville, was traveling south on Route 225 when it struck the rear of the buggy carrying six occupants. Koperna told troopers he believed he had fallen asleep just before impact.
The buggy, operated by 34-year-old Ervan J. Zook of Dornsife, was carrying his wife, 29-year-old Leah R. Zook, and their children. The collision threw all six onto the roadway, shoulder, and an embankment.
Tragically, a 9-year-old boy flown by Life Flight to Geisinger Medical Center later died from his injuries, while a 7-year-old girl was pronounced dead at the scene.
Ervan and Leah Zook both suffered suspected serious injuries and were taken to Geisinger Medical Center. Their 3-year-old son sustained serious injuries, while their 1-year-old son was treated for minor injuries.
Koperna was also transported to Geisinger with suspected minor injuries. Both vehicles were heavily damaged, and the horse pulling the buggy died at the scene.
Emergency crews from Herndon and Trevorton fire companies responded, along with Area Services EMS, Americus EMS, Geisinger Life Flight, Cartas Towing, and Peiffers Towing.
The Pennsylvania State Police continue to investigate the circumstances of this tragic crash.
