Porter Township, PA — Joseph Bylina, 65, Dies in Single-Vehicle Crash on Route 402 A quiet stretch of **Route 402** turned tragic late Thursday night when **Joseph Bylina**, 65, lost his life in a **single-vehicle crash** in **Porter Township, Pike County**. Authorities say the accident occurred on a **narrow, wooded curve** where visibility is often limited, especially after dark.
According to Pennsylvania State Police, Bylina’s vehicle **drifted off the lane** and struck a tree with significant force. First responders arrived shortly after midnight to find the car heavily damaged and Bylina unresponsive inside. Emergency medical personnel extricated him from the wreckage and transported him to a nearby hospital, where he was later **pronounced dead** from his injuries.
Preliminary investigations suggest that **alcohol may have been a contributing factor**, though toxicology results are still pending. Officials are also examining other possible causes, including **speed, fatigue, and road conditions**, to determine the full sequence of events. Police have confirmed that **no other vehicles were involved**, and there were **no passengers** in the car.
For nearly two hours, Route 402 remained closed as crews worked to clear debris, document the scene, and ensure the area was safe for travel. Local residents described the curve where the crash happened as “dangerous,” particularly at night when deer crossings and poor lighting make driving conditions more challenging.
Friends and neighbors are mourning the loss of Joseph Bylina, remembering him as a **kind and hardworking man** who valued his community and family. His passing has left a deep void among those who knew him well.The **Pike County Coroner’s Office** and **State Police** continue to investigate the incident. Funeral arrangements for Mr. Bylina will be announced in the coming days. May he rest in eternal peace.
