UNION TWP., PA — A fatal rollover crash on Route 11 Saturday night claimed the life of 56-year-old Michael Faruolo, a resident of Shickshinny. According to state police, the accident occurred around 10:30 p.m., and Faruolo was ejected from his vehicle, a Toyota RAV4, during the crash. Authorities pronounced him dead at the scene.
Investigators reported that Faruolo was driving southbound when his vehicle veered across the northbound lanes and struck a guiderail. The collision caused the vehicle to become airborne, slamming into a utility pole before overturning and landing back on the roadway. Emergency responders arrived quickly but were unable to save Faruolo due to the severity of his injuries.
The crash left the area littered with debris, and the RAV4 was severely damaged. Police have not yet determined what caused Faruolo to lose control of the vehicle. Investigators are looking into possible factors such as speed, road conditions, or a mechanical failure, though no official cause has been identified.
State police at the Shickshinny barracks are leading the investigation and have asked for any witnesses to come forward. As the investigation continues, the authorities are working to reconstruct the events leading up to the crash. The utility pole that was struck sustained significant damage, and crews were dispatched to repair it, causing temporary traffic disruptions in the area.
The sudden loss of Michael Faruolo has sent shockwaves through the Shickshinny community. Friends and neighbors remembered him as a friendly and well-liked individual who had strong ties to the local area. His death has left a profound void, and those who knew him are struggling to come to terms with the tragedy.
Authorities remind drivers to exercise caution on rural roads like Route 11, where accidents can happen unexpectedly. This incident serves as a somber reminder of the dangers that can arise on the road, and the community is left mourning the loss of one of its own.