BRICK TOWNSHIP, N.J. — A Brick Township woman has been charged in connection with a fatal crash in western Pennsylvania that killed two people riding a motorcycle after investigators said she became distracted by a bug inside her vehicle.
According to the Pennsylvania State Police, Bernadette Ann Cobb, 55, was driving a 2021 Nissan Rogue eastbound on Route 219 in Brady Township, Clearfield County, at approximately 4:45 p.m. Wednesday when her SUV crossed into the opposite lane and collided head-on with a 2013 Harley-Davidson motorcycle.
- A 55-year-old Brick Township woman has been charged with two counts of homicide by vehicle following a fatal crash in Pennsylvania.
- Police said the driver told investigators she “freaked out” after a bug flew into her SUV through an open window.
- Two people riding a Harley-Davidson motorcycle were killed in the head-on collision.
Police say distraction led to deadly collision
Investigators allege Cobb told troopers that a bug flew through an open window, causing her to panic.
According to the probable cause affidavit, Cobb said she “freaked out,” attempted to swat the insect away, and “put her head down by accident,” causing her vehicle to drift into the oncoming lane. Police said Cobb’s passenger attempted to steer the SUV back into its lane but was unable to prevent the collision.
The motorcycle’s operator, Anthony M. Sones, 34, and passenger, Miranda S. Wormuth, 30, both died from injuries sustained in the crash.
Multiple felony charges filed
Court records show Cobb has been charged with two counts of homicide by vehicle, aggravated assault by vehicle, involuntary manslaughter, two counts of recklessly endangering another person, two counts of careless driving resulting in unintentional death, and additional traffic violations.
Pennsylvania State Police reported there were no indications that Cobb was impaired at the time of the crash.
Cobb was initially held at the Clearfield County Jail before being released after posting $100,000 bond. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Friday in Clearfield County court.
As with all criminal cases, Cobb is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
FAQ
- What caused the crash, according to police?
Investigators allege the driver became distracted after a bug flew into her SUV through an open window, causing her vehicle to cross into oncoming traffic. - Who were the victims?
Anthony M. Sones, 34, and Miranda S. Wormuth, 30, who were riding a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. - What charges does the driver face?
Two counts of homicide by vehicle, aggravated assault by vehicle, involuntary manslaughter, reckless endangerment, and several traffic-related offenses.
Sources: Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System court records, Pennsylvania State Police
