Pittsburgh, PA (September 7, 2025) – Emergency responders rushed to the scene Saturday afternoon following a two-vehicle crash involving a blue SUV and a white sedan near St. Mary Cemetery at the intersection of Penn Ave and 45th St in Pittsburgh’s Bloomfield/Lawrenceville area.
The incident occurred shortly after 1:00 p.m. and caused a significant disruption to local traffic. According to audio from Allegheny County East Police dispatch, one person was observed bleeding from the hands and appeared visibly agitated. The crash left debris scattered across the roadway, prompting safety concerns for passing drivers and pedestrians.
Two flatbed tow trucks were requested due to the severity of the damage to both vehicles. While specific injury details have not yet been fully disclosed, dispatch confirmed at least one person required assistance, and emergency medical personnel were likely involved in treatment at the scene.
The collision resulted in a full blockage near the cemetery entrance, leading officers to redirect traffic away from the intersection. Responders remained on scene for an extended period while clearing the wreckage and documenting the incident for further investigation.
Authorities have not yet identified the drivers involved or released information about contributing factors. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
We extend our thoughts to those injured in this incident and wish everyone involved a full recovery.
Urban Intersection Crashes in Pennsylvania
The crash near Penn Ave and 45th St in Pittsburgh is emblematic of the challenges drivers face at busy urban intersections—especially in areas like Lawrenceville and Bloomfield, where residential streets intersect with high-traffic corridors. Intersections near landmarks such as St. Mary Cemetery can become particularly hazardous due to increased vehicle volume, pedestrian crossings, and limited visibility around parked cars.
While full details of the crash remain under review, the observed debris, visible injuries, and need for dual tow trucks suggest a high-impact collision. In similar incidents, common contributing factors include distracted driving, aggressive turns, failure to yield, and speeding.
For those injured in such crashes, the recovery journey can include more than just healing from visible wounds. Emotional stress, vehicle damage, and potential insurance or legal complications can create significant burdens. Access to proper medical care and support resources is vital in the early days following an accident.
This incident also highlights the need for improved road safety infrastructure in Pittsburgh’s older neighborhoods, where tight streets and dense traffic patterns create elevated risks. Advocates have called for more traffic-calming measures, upgraded signage, and public awareness campaigns to help reduce accident frequency.
If you’ve been injured in a traffic collision—especially one involving injuries and significant vehicle damage—it’s important to understand your options and seek out the support you need to protect your health and legal rights.
Were you or a family member injured in this crash on Penn Ave and 45th St? At Local Accident Reports, we help Pittsburgh-area residents get the resources they need after serious traffic incidents. Whether it’s understanding your legal options, finding medical providers, or planning your recovery, our team is here for you. Reach out today to take the first step toward healing and peace of mind.