PLAINS TOWNSHIP, Luzerne County, Pa., Oct. 27, 2026 — A pedestrian was killed Monday morning, October 26, after being struck by a vehicle on state Route 315 in Plains Township. The crash shut down the highway in both directions for part of the morning.
The victim was hit in the area of the Dairy Queen Grill & Chill shortly before 7 a.m., Plains Township Police Chief Dale Binker said.
Police closed Route 315 in both directions near Mohegan Pennsylvania while they investigated, the chief said. It wasn't immediately clear how long the roadway remained shut.
No charges had been filed as of Monday. The circumstances of the crash, including what led up to the impact, remain under investigation.
Our sympathies are with the family of the person who lost their life.
More on Crashes in Plains Township, PA
This pedestrian crash happened on Route 315 in Plains Township, Pennsylvania. We cover crashes across Luzerne County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Luzerne County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pedestrian crashes more common at night?
Many happen after dark because drivers have less time to see people on foot, but plenty occur in daylight or early morning, as this one did, especially near driveways, intersections and parking lot entrances.
Who has the right of way at a crosswalk?
Pedestrians generally have the right of way in marked and unmarked crosswalks, but both drivers and pedestrians are expected to stay alert, since local rules and visibility can affect how that plays out in practice.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Crash in Plains Township, PA
Anyone who witnesses or is involved in a pedestrian crash should call 911 immediately and stay at the scene until officers arrive. If you're a bystander, check whether the injured person is conscious and breathing, but avoid moving them unless there's an immediate danger like oncoming traffic. Note what you saw, including the time, direction of travel and any details about the vehicle, since that information can help investigators piece together what happened. Anyone injured, even if symptoms seem mild at first, should be evaluated by a doctor, since impacts with a vehicle can cause injuries that aren't obvious right away. Residents in Plains Township can also follow up with local police for updates on the investigation's status.