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Shortly after the crash, Preston Mowery, of Ephrata, was found seatbelted but unresponsive in the driver’s seat of a 2013 Chevrolet Malibu along the side of Route 30/Lincoln Highway around 7 a.m. on Monday, according to the Lancaster County Coroner’s Office and the Pennsylvania State Police.
Three other vehicles were involved: a tractor-trailer, a Tesla, and another sedan— all only drivers in the vehicles, according to the PSP release on June 24.
Preston was attempting to pass the Tesla when he struck the side of it — forcing it into the shoulder and causing Preston's vehicle to become airborne — striking the roof of the other sedan, landing in the opposing lane of traffic facing the tractor-trailer, as explained in the release.
The tractor-trailer driver seems to have attempted to pull over to avoid a crash but ended up overturning in an embankment, PSP Lancaster Trooper Joshua Mease stated in the release.
None of the other drivers were injured. Preston was pronounced dead at the scene at 9:15 a.m., as detailed in the PSP release. His death was ruled an accident from multiple traumatic injuries, according to the coroner's office.
Route 30 was closed down in Salisbury Township for hours after the crash.
Preston's community has been sharing about its sudden loss on social media.
He was born in Intercourse and grew up to become a "valued employee at Pelet Welding Inc. of Coatesville. He took pride in his work with an attention to detail second to none," as stated in his obituary. He enjoyed playing games, tending to animals, and spending time with his family.
He is survived by his mom, five siblings, and extended family, according to his obituary.
His funeral service will be held at the Mechanic Grove Church of the Brethren located at 1392 Robert Fulton Highway in Quarryville on Tuesday, June 25 at noon with Pastor Beth A. Engel officiating.
Click here to read his complete obituary.
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