HARRISON TOWNSHIP, PA – The quiet neighborhood of Harrison Township was transformed into a scene of tragedy last August when an 11-year-old girl was fatally struck by a vehicle driven by a man authorities say was intoxicated. Now, nearly a year after the crash, criminal charges have been filed in connection to the deadly incident.
Jeffrey Glowatski, 65, of Natrona Heights, is facing counts of driving under the influence and careless driving after police allege he consumed a dozen beers over the course of several hours before getting behind the wheel. The charges come nearly a year after the death of Roxanne Bonnoni, who was killed as she crossed Kuntz Street in front of her home.
Investigators say Glowatski spent the afternoon of the crash at two area bars, beginning with his first drink around 2:45 p.m. He finished his last beer at Boots Bar shortly after 7 p.m., according to a criminal complaint. Police allege that within minutes of leaving the bar, Glowatski entered his Jeep Patriot and drove a short distance before hitting Roxanne, who was playing outside.
According to witness accounts detailed in court documents, at least one neighbor rushed to the scene moments after the crash, confronting Glowatski and preventing him from leaving. The neighbor told police he took Glowatski’s keys and waited until authorities arrived.
When officers responded, they reported Glowatski’s speech was slurred and he refused to perform field sobriety tests. Due to his refusal, officers obtained a search warrant to conduct a blood alcohol test. Results indicated Glowatski’s blood alcohol content was 0.153%, nearly twice Pennsylvania’s legal limit of 0.08%.
Roxanne Bonnoni, who was hearing impaired, was described by loved ones as a joyful, imaginative child looking forward to a new school year at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf. Her obituary recalled her aspirations to be a cheerleader and soccer player, and remembered her as creative, humorous, and full of life.
The crash was witnessed by Roxanne’s father, Anthony Csizmadia, who, according to the family, ran to his daughter after the collision. Despite efforts to save her, Roxanne could not be revived.
The family’s attorney said in a statement that the District Attorney’s Office and investigating officers have worked persistently in the aftermath of the tragedy, bringing some measure of solace to those mourning Roxanne.
Despite the nature of the incident, authorities have charged Glowatski only with driving under the influence and careless driving. Records do not show charges related to vehicular homicide or involuntary manslaughter. When questioned about the potential for additional charges, a spokesperson for the district attorney said the case is being prosecuted in accordance with the available evidence.
Community members have remembered Roxanne for her love of art, nature, and time spent with her younger sister. In the time since her death, her family has relied on the support of friends, neighbors, and the wider community.
As the anniversary of the crash approaches, the tragedy has reignited conversations about the dangers of impaired driving and the impact on families left behind. Glowatski remains charged and is scheduled to appear in court as the legal process unfolds.