Monroe Township, PA (March 18, 2026) – A 58-year-old woman from Sunbury was seriously hurt in a multi-vehicle crash on Tuesday afternoon, March 17, near the Susquehanna Valley Mall.
The crash happened around 4:30 p.m. along N Susquehanna Trl just past Susquehanna Valley Mall Dr. According to reports, Sandy L. Mallatratt was driving a 2015 Toyota RAV4 north in the left lane when her vehicle struck the rear of a 2008 Chevrolet Suburban.
The force of the impact pushed the Suburban forward, causing it to hit the back of a 2022 Chevrolet Blazer that was stopped ahead. Emergency units arrived at the scene and transported Mallatratt to Geisinger Medical Center for treatment of suspected serious injuries.
Officials noted that Mallatratt was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. She was later cited for following too closely, careless driving, and not using a seat belt. Additional details about the condition of the other drivers were not immediately available.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they are provided.
Our thoughts are with those injured as they receive medical care.
How Chain-Reaction Crashes Often Happen on Busy Roads
Chain-reaction crashes, also called rear-end collisions involving multiple vehicles, often occur in areas with heavy traffic or near shopping centers. When one driver fails to maintain a safe following distance, even a brief delay in stopping can lead to a series of impacts.
These types of crashes frequently begin with a sudden slowdown or stop. Drivers who are too close may not have enough time to react, especially in multi-lane traffic. The first collision can push vehicles into others ahead, creating a ripple effect.
Seat belt use can also affect injury severity in these situations. Even at moderate speeds, being unrestrained increases the risk of serious harm. Keeping a safe distance and staying alert can help reduce the chances of these accidents.
