Nippenose Township, PA (May 13, 2026) – A 20-year-old man died, and another driver was injured following a two-vehicle crash on Tuesday evening, May 12, in Lycoming County. The collision occurred around 7:30 p.m. in the 2100 block of Route 44 in Nippenose Township.
According to the Pennsylvania State Police in Montoursville, the crash happened when a southbound driver, identified as Milan Dodson of Jersey Shore, attempted to pass vehicles ahead of him. As he moved into the northbound lane, he encountered an oncoming vehicle driven by 36-year-old Arliss James Rhinehart of Waterville.
Investigators said Dodson swerved back into the southbound lane but lost control of his vehicle, which then slid back into the northbound lane and directly into Rhinehart’s path. The vehicles collided, causing both to leave the roadway and come to rest in separate positions along the northbound side.
Dodson, who was not wearing a seat belt, was transported to UPMC Williamsport, where he later died from his injuries. Rhinehart, who was wearing a seat belt, was taken to Geisinger Jersey Shore with suspected minor injuries.
Emergency units, including local fire companies and towing crews, assisted at the scene as investigators worked to reconstruct the crash. Authorities continue to review the circumstances.
Our deepest condolences go out to the family and loved ones of Milan Dodson, and we are thinking of those injured during this tragic incident.
Why Passing Maneuvers on Two-Lane Roads Can Lead to Severe Head-On Crashes
Head-on and near head-on collisions are among the most dangerous types of roadway crashes, especially on two-lane highways. These incidents often occur when a driver attempts to pass slower traffic and misjudges distance or oncoming speed.
Roads like Route 44 in rural areas can present limited passing zones and reduced reaction time for drivers. When control is lost during a passing maneuver, vehicles may quickly enter oncoming traffic lanes, increasing the risk of severe impact. Investigators typically examine vehicle positioning, skid patterns, and roadway conditions to understand how these crashes develop. Even small errors in judgment at highway speeds can lead to fatal consequences.
