Lehigh County, PA – The Lehigh County Coroner’s Office has identified one of the two victims killed in a tragic multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 78 early Monday morning, while the other remains unidentified. The crash, involving multiple vehicles, occurred shortly before 8 a.m. and claimed two lives.
The first victim has been identified as 30-year-old Nicolas Bolotine of East Cocalico Township. Bolotine was driving a tractor-trailer for Sauder’s Egg when his vehicle collided with another tractor-trailer. The coroner’s report confirmed that Bolotine died from multiple blunt force injuries sustained in the collision. His death has been officially ruled as a result of a motor vehicle accident.
The second victim, currently referred to as “John Doe,” was a pedestrian struck by a tractor-trailer after exiting his vehicle. According to the coroner, the individual had been attempting to push his disabled vehicle off the roadway when the fatal incident occurred. Like Bolotine, John Doe succumbed to multiple blunt force injuries. Efforts to determine his identity are ongoing, with authorities working alongside state and federal agencies.
The crash has prompted an investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police, Fogelsville Station, and the Lehigh County District Attorney’s Office. Investigators are examining potential contributing factors such as road conditions, driver behavior, and vehicle maintenance to understand the circumstances leading to the fatal collision.
The tragic accident has left the local community in mourning. Bolotine’s family and the loved ones of the unidentified pedestrian are grappling with their sudden losses. Officials are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has information about John Doe’s identity to come forward, as identifying the pedestrian remains a priority.
As the investigation continues, the community hopes for clarity about the events surrounding the crash and justice for the victims. The dedication of the Pennsylvania State Police and the Lehigh County District Attorney’s Office is expected to shed light on the incident, and officials remain optimistic about identifying the second victim soon.