Juniata High School student killed in crash
EAST WATERFORD — A student at Juniata High School in Mifflintown was killed early Sunday morning after a single-vehicle crash along Route 35 in Tuscarora Township, according to local fire officials and the Juniata County School District.
Firefighters from the East Waterford Fire Co. were dispatched shortly after midnight to the area of Route 35 and Hopple Lane for a report of a vehicle accident with fire, according to a post on the Mifflintown Hose Co. No. 1’s Facebook page.
Responders arrived to find the vehicle had struck a tree and was burning, with the driver trapped inside, according to the East Waterford Fire Co. Facebook page. It is unknown how many individuals were traveling in the vehicle, but at least one individual was pronounced dead at the scene by the Juniata County Coroner’s Office, officials said.
Route 35 remained closed until about 5 a.m. while Pennsylvania State Police conducted accident reconstruction and crews cleared the scene, officials said.
Juniata County School District Superintendent Christie Holderman confirmed Sunday that the victim was a student at Juniata High School and also attended the Mifflin County Academy of Science and Technology in Lewistown. A notice was posted on the district’s website, and support services were made available at the school.
The post read: “It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the death of one of our Juniata High School and Academy students as a result of a vehicle accident. This loss is heartbreaking, and our thoughts are with the student’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.
“We know that news like this can be upsetting and may bring up many emotions for our students, staff, and families. To support our school community, counselors and support staff will be available at school tomorrow for any student or staff member who would like to talk. We encourage anyone who is struggling to reach out and accept this support.
“Families may wish to talk with their children about this loss. When having these conversations, it can be helpful to:
Use simple, honest language appropriate to your child’s age;
Listen more than you speak, and allow children to share feelings or questions at their own pace;
Reassure children that it is okay to feel sad, confused, or upset, and that these feelings can come and go;
Maintain normal routines when possible, as consistency can provide comfort and a sense of safety;
Let your child know that trusted adults at school are available to support them.
“If you or your child need immediate help outside of school hours, support is available 24/7:
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988
“Please take care of one another, and do not hesitate to reach out if you need support. We will continue to keep the family in our thoughts and respect their privacy during this time.”
East Waterford Fire Company was assisted by Mifflintown Hose Co., Beale Township Fire Co., Fannett-Metal Fire Co., Lack-Tuscarora EMS, Port Royal EMS, Central Juniata EMS, Pennsylvania State Police, PennDOT, and the Juniata County Coroner’s Office.
The identity of the student has not been released, pending family notification, officials said. The crash remains under investigation.

