Memorial Day travel sees nearly 850 crashes statewide
HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania State Police investigated 843 crashes and made nearly 400 DUI arrests during the Memorial Day holiday enforcement period, according to statistics released Tuesday by the agency.
During the four-day enforcement period from May 22-25, troopers investigated crashes that resulted in 129 injuries and five fatalities statewide. Police said alcohol or drugs were a factor in 59 of the crashes, including two fatal crashes.
State police also arrested 399 motorists for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs during the holiday period.
In addition, troopers issued 26,871 citations, including 6,519 for speeding, 1,074 for seat belt violations and 110 for child safety seat violations.
By comparison, PSP investigated 750 crashes during the 2025 Memorial Day enforcement period, which resulted in nine deaths and 134 injuries. Troopers made 519 DUI arrests and issued 7,126 speeding citations during last year’s holiday enforcement effort.
The statistics released by PSP only include incidents investigated by the Pennsylvania State Police and do not include crashes or enforcement activity handled by municipal police departments or other law enforcement agencies.
Gov. Josh Shapiro’s proposed 2026-27 state budget includes a $16.2 million investment for four additional state police cadet classes, which officials said would support approximately 380 troopers.
According to PSP, the agency has also seen an increase in applicants since the state eliminated the college credit requirement for troopers in 2023. Officials said the current hiring cycle remains open through May 29.
