Schuylkill County, PA (September 15, 2025) – A tragic accident in Schuylkill County claimed the life of one man on Sunday afternoon, while another individual sustained serious injuries. According to Schuylkill Haven State Police, the crash occurred around 4:00 p.m. on State Route 61.
58-year-old Eduardo Barcenas-Moncada and 21-year-old Consuelo Barcenas were traveling on Route 61 when they stopped in the left lane of the highway. Barcenas-Moncada got out of the vehicle to check under the hood when their car was struck by 29-year-old Derek Musser, who was driving a pickup truck.
The impact of the collision caused Barcenas-Moncada to become airborne, and he was tragically pronounced dead at the scene due to his injuries. His passenger, Consuelo Barcenas, was treated by EMS at the scene before being transported to Lehigh Valley Schuylkill East with a suspected serious injury.
Musser, the driver of the pickup truck, was treated by emergency personnel at the scene but did not require hospitalization. Both vehicles involved in the crash were towed away from the scene, and police have launched an investigation into the incident.
This tragic event highlights the risks faced by individuals outside of their vehicles on busy highways. Route 61, a major state route, can see heavy traffic and high speeds, which can lead to accidents when vehicles are stopped or when drivers fail to notice other road users.
Schuylkill Haven State Police are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, including reviewing potential contributing factors such as speed, visibility, and the condition of both vehicles.
Our thoughts are with Eduardo Barcenas-Moncada’s family and friends during this difficult time, and we wish Consuelo Barcenas a full and swift recovery.
Highway Safety: The Dangers of Stopping on Busy Roads
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks that drivers and passengers face when stopping or exiting their vehicles on busy highways. State Route 61, a heavily traveled route, is especially hazardous when drivers are forced to stop in the left lane or near high-speed traffic. Police often advise that drivers only stop in safe areas like designated parking spaces or shoulder lanes, particularly on highways where traffic flow is fast.
Fatalities such as this underscore the importance of road safety for both those inside and outside vehicles. Pennsylvania State Police remind the public to be vigilant about their surroundings and avoid leaving the vehicle unless it is necessary. If you need to check under your car’s hood or address any mechanical issues, it’s best to move to the right shoulder or find a safe, well-lit area away from high-speed lanes.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a similar incident, understanding your rights and the next steps in the recovery process is critical. Local Accident Reports offers resources and legal assistance to help you navigate the aftermath of such accidents, whether you’re dealing with injuries, insurance claims, or emotional recovery. Contact us today for the support you need.
