York County, Pa. — Charges have been filed against the driver of a box truck involved in a tragic accident that resulted in the deaths of three construction workers in York County nearly a year ago. The incident, which occurred on April 17, 2024, on Interstate 83, has moved to the legal spotlight as authorities assert the driver, Reed Davenport, 25, of Maryland, was impaired and negligent at the time of the crash.
The charges against Davenport include three counts each of third-degree murder, homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence, and standard homicide by vehicle, marking a significant judicial response to the fatal event. Additionally, Davenport faces multiple misdemeanors and other traffic-related offenses.
Investigations revealed that Davenport had allegedly admitted to operating the vehicle after 24 hours without sleep, attributing his fatigue to personal responsibilities, including caring for newborn puppies at home. He reported to law enforcement that he “blacked out” prior to the collision and regained consciousness only after the accident occurred.
The accident unfolded as Davenport, driving southbound, entered a clearly marked construction zone at mile marker 35.5. Despite visible signs and crash attenuators directing traffic, Davenport’s vehicle struck an attenuator truck and veered off into the zone where the workers were present. The speed of the vehicle was recorded at approximately 63 mph, and there was no evidence of braking before the collision.
The workers killed in the incident were identified as Robert Hampe, 42, from Myersdale; Philson Hinebaugh III, 24, from Johnstown; and Jesse McKenzie, 24, from Somerset. Their deaths have since prompted discussions about safety regulations and enforcement in construction zones.
A toxicology report later found that Davenport had Delta-9 THC in his bloodstream, a compound commonly found in cannabis, at the time of the accident. This detail supports charges related to driving under the influence and has fueled debates about substance use and road safety.
The community and families of the victims have been deeply affected by the tragedy. In the wake of the accident, there has been a louder call for increased safety measures and stricter enforcement of traffic laws in work zones to prevent such incidents in the future.
As legal proceedings continue, Davenport is expected to face a preliminary hearing, where the details of the charges will be further examined. The case not only highlights the personal tragedies of those involved but also serves as a somber reminder of the responsibilities drivers hold, especially when navigating areas where road workers are present.
The incident on I-83 is a grim example of what can go awry when vehicles are operated negligently in construction zones, areas that are particularly vulnerable to accidents due to frequent changes in traffic patterns and the presence of workers close to moving traffic. The outcome of the upcoming legal proceedings may set precedents for how similar cases are handled in the future, emphasizing the dire consequences of neglecting road safety.