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July 2, 2009
The death of a Hawley woman whose body was found in Lake Wallenpaupack on Tuesday has been ruled an accidental drowning. The Wayne County Corner confirmed that statement after an autopsy on Wednesday. 28 year old Holly Steffens was reported missing on Monday after she was last seen wandering away from a beached boat just west of the P-P-L Environmental Center in Palmyra Township. Steffens body was later recovered by dive teams just 50 yards off the boat launch in Paupack Township. State police continue their investigation.
July 2, 2009
The death of a Hawley woman whose body was found in Lake Wallenpaupack on Tuesday has been ruled an accidental drowning. The Wayne County Corner confirmed that statement after an autopsy on Wednesday. 28 year old Holly Steffens was reported missing on Monday after she was last seen wandering away from a beached boat just west of the P-P-L Environmental Center in Palmyra Township. Steffens body was later recovered by dive teams just 50 yards off the boat launch in Paupack Township. State police continue their investigation.
July 2, 2009
Pocono Township Police are releasing a composite sketch of a man wanted in a home invasion. It happened around noon last Friday at a home in the Woodlands development. The owner heard someone ring her doorbell and then found someone in the hallway of her house. The suspect asked the victim if she needed her weeds sprayed. When the victim said no the suspect ran out of the house. Police are looking for a white male in his late teens to early 20’s - standing 5 feet 8 inches tall, 150 pounds with dark hair. The suspect may have left in a dark green dodge pickup. If you can help identify the man you are asked to call Pocono Township Police.
July 2, 2009
What was supposed to be a fireworks fundraiser for the Lehighton Fire Department has turned into a major dud. The borough's fire chief authorized 200 permits to be sold at the BADABOOM fireworks store in Monroe County. Anyone could purchase a permit for $20 and then buy fireworks deemed illegal in Pennsylvania. However borough officials say those permits are not valid, and anyone caught using illegal fireworks will be prosecuted. Residents are asked to drop off any illegal foreworks purchased to the Lehighton Police Department...
July 2, 2009
Federal health officials are holding a meeting to update residents on a local cancer cluster. The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry is holding a meeting July 9th to inform the community of recent efforts regarding Polycythemia Vera. It runs from seven to nine p.m. at the Tamaqua High School Auditorium. Since the rates of PV are higher in this area of Pennsylvania, federal health officials are offering free blood tests to the community. They'll screen for the JAK2 gene marker which is found in more than 95% of PV patients. The tests are open to anyone living in Carbon, Luzerne or Schuylkill Counties. Blood clinics will be set up in Hazelton, Tamaqua and Pottsville August 3 - 6th, and August 10 - 13th. Call 1-877-525-4860 to make an appointment.
July 2, 2009
It's a small bridge, but important to the Towamensing Township residents who depend on it everyday. They say Koch Road is their connection to Route 209. But, the bridge along the roadway is crumbling. Carbon County officials say it's in dangerously poor condition. Commissioners say they hope to have the bridge completely replaced by the end of 2012. Today, the entered into an engineering agreement to get the ball rolling. The bridge replacement project carries a total price tag of $2 million.
July 2, 2009
A Matamoras man who pled guilty to homicide by motor vehicle while driving under the influence back in 2007 - will spend the next several years in state prison. Back in june of 2007- 23 year old Nathan Krape of Matamoras crashed his vehicle into a tree in the Sunrise Lakes Development in Dingman Township. 21 year old Danielle Carman was Krapes best friend and passenger in that car. Sadly she succumbed to the severe injuries she sustained while Krape survived. It was later determined from a blood sample taken by the state police that night, that Krape was under the influence of drugs and alcohol. Krape was sentenced to 3 to 6 years in a state penitentiary. All parties involved in this terrible tragedy hope this story can stop at least one person from drinking and getting behind the wheel of a car this holiday weekend.
July 1, 2009
A Northampton County man is still missing after last being seen Monday morning in Carbon County. Police say Donald Lynch of Palmer Township had gone to a neighborhood on Martha's Lane in Penn Forest Township. He is an engineer and was doing private consulting for a property owner. Afterwards, he was scheduled to go to his job at Buckeye Pipe Line but he never arrived. Lynch is described as standing 5 feet 7 inches tall, weighing 160 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. he was driving a black PT Cruiser. Anyone with information about Lynch's whereabouts is asked to contact Palmer Township Police.
July 1, 2009
Authorities are searching for relatives of a man killed after being hit by a train. The Monroe County Coroner's Office released the identity of Scott Salvador after failed attempts to reach his next of kin. The 52-year-old homeless man was run over by a freight train in East Stroudsburg Sunday. Salvador's death has been ruled an accident and a coroner office official tells News 13 they will continue searching for his family over the next week. If no one comes forward Salvador will be buried by the county with money from a special fund.
July 1, 2009
The long awaited cleanup to the Deer Lane property in Towamensing Township is finally complete. For a decade neighbors had to put up with the stench of tons of trash next to their homes. Towamensing Township officials hired a contractor to clean the mess up about a month ago, and today the trash is gone. Officials say they will now attempt to seize the property from former owner Joseph Salai and have the remaining structures removed...
July 1, 2009
People in need of mental treatment are being forced to find it behind bars in Monroe County. It can all be blamed on the lack of a state budget. According to Commissioner Susan McCool who says cuts to Mental Health Mental Retardation Department is making the county jail a de-facto facility for mental health cases. Normally, MHMR helps to rehabilitate these citizens who often commit low-level crimes. But with funding cuts coming down the pike they are having to turn them away. National studies indicate as many as 60% of county jail inmates suffer from some form of behavioral health. McCool is calling on local judges to help set up specialty courts to deal with the issue.
July 1, 2009
A Tamaqua man was severely burned while making his own fireworks last year. He hopes to prevent other people from making the same mistake he did. Steven McDonald says he made his own fireworks for years. But last June, something went terribly wrong. The firework blew up in his hand, leaving him with second degree burns. After several surgeries and two months, he recovered from his injury. But, he stays away from fireworks and leaves the displays to professionals. Every summer, 10,000 people are burned by fireworks.
July 1, 2009
Police in Pike County are searching for two men who stole cigarettes from a deli early this morning. Officers say the two men broke into the Bushkill Corner Deli at Bushkill Road and State Route 2001 around two-am. They left with an undisclosed number of cigarette cartons. Anyone with information about the break in should contact State Police at Blooming Grove.
July 1, 2009
Police in Milford are releasing the name of man killed in an accident Monday. They say 43-year old James Irwin of Wild Acres was pronounced dead after his car drove off Broad Street and into some shrubs near the shell gas station. Irwin may have experienced a medical problem which led to the accident on Monday morning. Irwin was pronounced dead at Bon Secours Community Hospital in Port Jervis New York.
July 1, 2009
Stroud Regional Police say 48-thousand dollars worth of catalytic converters were stolen from vehicles at Ray Price Auto in Stroud Township Sunday morning. Video surveillance shows the thieves hitting 37 vehicles...mostly Honda CRV's and Pilots. Police say those are easy targets because people to not need to lift the vehicles up to get at the converters. So far they have "active" leads.
June 30, 2009
The body of a missing Hawley woman was found this afternoon in Lake Wallenpaupack. Crews searched from the sky, on boats and even under water for any sign of 28 year old Holly Steffens of Hawley. Reports indicate Steffens was last seen either Sunday night or Monday morning wandering off a boat that was beached along Lake Wallenpaupack just west of the PPL Environmental Center. Her body was found this afternoon around one o'clock just 50 feet off the dock at the boat launch in Paupack Township. Police would not comment on the condition of the body.
June 30, 2009
Shocking allegations have surfaced against an employee of the Palmerton School District. According to court papers, 38-year old Gary Snyder is charged with raping a child as well as numerous other sex charges. The police affidavid indicates Plamerton's Director of District Services allegedly had close to one hundred sexual encounters with the now 16-year-old boy from teh time he was in 6th grade until this year. Snyder had been suspended with pay since April 29th. And on Tuesday he was suspended without pay. A preliminary hearing is set for July 8th...
June 30, 2009
There are just a few hours to go before the deadline to pass a new state budget and so far lawmakers haven't been able to reach a deal. Governor Rendell was anticipating it would be some time before an agreement was reached when he announced a program to loan money to state employees who would not be paid after July 17th. Ten banks and credit unions have agreed to make low or no interest loans to employees if the deadlock isn't broken. Governor Rendell says employees will remain on the job because of a recent court decision that prevents furloughs and closing of state offices.
June 30, 2009
The Pike County Humane Society is closed because of an outbreak of kennel cough. The respiratory infection can be passed between animals. There are vaccines for kennel cough but some animals that come to the shelter have not been treated. The Pike Humane Society said they decided to voluntarily quarantine their pets so the outbreak does not get any worse. The Pike Humane Society said the extra vet bills and a drop in donations because of the economy have severely impacted their operations. The dogs will be evaluated on Thursday before the shelter decides when it may reopen.
June 30, 2009
A gala event next month will help three nonprofit organizations in Monroe County. The sixth annual Pocono Mountains Community Fundraiser is set for June 30th at Skytop Lodge. Last year the event raised more than 175-thousand dollars. Organizers have announced the three charities who will benefit this year. They are the Follow Me Foundation, Pocono Family YMCA, and Pocono Healthy Communities Alliance. All say they desperately need the funds right now The Follow Me Foundation will use the funds toward their Healthy Child Program, which is committed to bringing healthy, nutritious food to hungry children of local, low-income families. The Pocono Family YMCA will invest its funds in restoring and revitalizing the Hidden Lake camp as part of their mission to building a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all Monroe County children. Pocono Healthy Communities Alliance will apply the funding toward the expansion of their Healthy Start screening program, which provides free developmental speech. Tickets and corporate sponsorships are still available by contacting TJ Price at 570-856-8176 or tjprice@ptd.net.
June 30, 2009
It's the most commonly used painkiller in the United States. So, Tylenol is safe, right? Not according to the FDA. They say Acetaminophen overdoses are becoming more common. The FDA feels combination drugs, like NyQuil and Sudafed, are to blame. What some people don't realize is many combo drugs already contain Acetaminophen. Then, they take plain Tylenol on top of it, giving them a double dose of the drug. The FDA is considering pulling some of the combination drugs right off the shelf. But local pharmacists we spoke with say they don't think that's a good idea. They feel if the public is educated more about taking the drug responsibly, it'll be safe for use. Pharmacists recommend contacting them or your physician before taking any drugs, whether they're prescribed or over the counter.
June 29, 2009
An Aquashicola man is taken to the hospital after an apparent DUI crash in Lower Towamensing Township. It happened around 3:30 a.m. Saturday. Police say 19-year-old Dustin Bauer was driving on Hahns Dairy Road when he failed to stop at the "T" intersection with Forest Inn Road. Bauer drove across both lanes of Forest Inn striking a guide rail and launching his truck into the air. His pick-up hit a tree mid-air and then landed on its wheels. Bauer was taken to Saint Luke's Hopsital with major injury. Police say the accident is DUI related. State Police at Lehighton continue to investigate.
June 29, 2009
A man who police say ran an illegal snake store in Lehighton has been caught after eluding authorities for over a year. Police in Northampton County arrested 45-year-old Steven Markevich over the weekend. He's charged with numerous counts of cruelty to animals and over 300 counts of Lehighton Borough violations. In April 2008, animal caseworkers rescued over 160 snakes from the Serpents Den on First Street in Lehighton. Markevich is being held under $50,000 straight cash bail. A preliminary hearing is set for July 22nd.
June 29, 2009
Thousands of Pennsylvanians will soon lose their unemployment benefits. More than 20,000 residents who have been on unemployment for the past 72 weeks will lose their benefits by mid July. Officials at Career Link encourage those who are laid off to seek employment services now before time runs out. For more information on the services provided by Career Link, visit their website at carboncareerlink.org.
June 29, 2009
A change of heart, that's how police are describing a purse-snatching suspect who turned himself in. Authorities say Saturday morning 30-year-old Michael John Rettenmeyer walked into the Swiftwater State Police Barracks and confessed to two purse-snatching incidents. Both incidents happened Friday just minutes apart in Stroud Township. Police are still searching for a second suspect who allegedly helped Rettenmeyer flee the scene.
June 29, 2009
Authorities are trying to determine if a human leg found in the Delaware River came from a high school student missing in the river since May. 18-year old brain Lynch of Phillipsburg has been missing since he jumped from a train trestle near Portland may 25th. The spot is about 20-miles upstream from where a man fishing on the Delaware discovered the remains near Easton Sunday. Crews began a search in the area but no additional remains were discovered.
June 26, 2009
Four votes were enough for the Lansford Borough Council to approve the extension of the KOZ status for the former Panther Valley Middle School. Lansford Council President Robert Gaughan believes a project that defers taxes for businesses moving into the area will help their community create jobs. The owner of the former middle school, Adam Webber, is happy with the progress, but must get approval from the Panther Valley School board. They will hold a special meeting June 30th for their vote.
June 26, 2009
Authorities are releasing little information about an arrest of four people yesterday near east Stroudsburg. Police and agents from the Bureau of Alchohol Tobacco and Fire Arms stopped the suspects along Route 209 not far from the Interstate 80 exit around five last night. Four people were taken into custody. State Police in Swiftwater assisted in the arrest but are not releasing any information. A-T-F agents are also not saying much only that they plan to release information once their investigation is completed.
June 26, 2009
A Pike County man has been sentenced to state prison on charges he sold drugs to an undercover police officer. 20-year old George Earle of Milford will serve 18-months to 36 years in prison. Police say he sold narcotic mushrooms - cocaine and ecstasy pills to an undercover officer on three occasions last year. The sale's at Earle’s home in sunrise lakes and other locations in Dingmans Ferry.
June 26, 2009
An Allentown man will serve time in prison for trying to bilk Columbia University out of thousands of dollars he used to pay for a wedding in our area. 35-year old John Bzdil will serve 15-months in jail and must repay 180-thousand dollars to Columbia University. Bzdil was a manager at the university’s neurological institute when he submitted fake bills to pay for a September 2007 wedding at Skytop lodge near Canadensis. Charges against biz-dill’s wife were dropped in the case.
June 26, 2009
Everybody knows someone who has been afflicted with breast cancer. In fact, one in eight women will be diagnosed in their lifetime. Blue Mountain Health System is making sure that diagnosis, and treatment, happen earlier. They've purchased a full field digital mammography machine. Workers in the Radiology Department say the images are clearer and easier to get than ever before. The digital machine also makes the test easier and faster for patients. For more information on Blue Mountain's free mammogram program, call 610-377-7033.
June 25, 2009
A man accused of causing the crash that killed State Senator Jim Rhoades wants his bail re-instated and he is challenging some of the evidence against him. Thomas Senavitis of Towamensing Township is asking that he be allowed to post bail so he can assist in his defense. His bail was revoked after he showed up drunk at a court hearing for his wife in Carbon County. Senavitis had been ordered not to drink after he was charged with killing Senator Rhoades in a crash along route 209 last October. Senavitis is challenging his blood-alcohol test and the state trooper and pathologist who wrote the report.
June 25, 2009
A Pike County man charged with driving drunk in an accident that injured his three children will spend almost three years in jail. 40 year old Roger Peetz of Dingmans Ferry was charged with aggravated assault while driving under the influence after the crash last November on Park Road in Delaware Township. He lost control of his car and hit two trees. Two of the three children in the car were taken to the hospital by helicopters after the crash. Peetz total sentence is 33-months to 8 years in state prison. He will also lose his driver’s license for three years.
June 25, 2009
A tax exempt status could mean the difference between life and death for a local developer's dream. Lansford resident Adam Webber wants to turn the old Panther Valley Middle School into a community and business hub. But, he has to gain the support of three government bodies first. Extending the building's KOZ status means businesses that relocate there won't have to pay taxes for ten years. Today, he got the stamp of approval from the Carbon County Commissioners. Panther Valley School Board and Lansford Borough Council both need to approve the KOZ extension before it becomes official.
June 25, 2009
Supervisors in Middle Smithfield Township are hoping for a big turnout. The township is holding its first folk music festival at Echo Park. Headliners like John Sebastion and Richie Havens will perform on August 15th, the 40th anniversary of Woodstock. It's taking $150,000 out of the township's budget but Supervisor Scott Schaller says the profits will spur the local economy. One resident tells News 13 its a bad idea. Festival tickets are being sold online for about $20.
June 25, 2009
The victim of an arson fire in Pocono Summit earlier this month says he forgives the man accused of setting the blaze. Michael Bartell admits to using diesel fuel to set fire to Classic Quality homes along Route 940 in Pocon Summit earlier this month. The owner, David Wengerd forgives Bartell because he says his Christian Mennonite faith tells him to. Bartell waived arson and risking a catastrophe charges on to county court. He told News 13 he is sorry. No one was hurt in fire..but damaged is estimated at over 4-hundred thousand dollars.
June 25, 2009
Authorities have identified the man in yesterday's fatal tree cutting accident in Lehigh County. According to the Lehigh County Coroner, 30-year-old Samuel Saucedo Yanez Senior died on scene. Yanez fell from a tree while cutting it around two o'clock. It happened in North Whitehall Township just outside of Slatington along Ranch Road. The coroner has ruled the death an accident. The cause of death is attributed to injuries sustained in the fall.
June 25, 2009
A Carbon County man withdraws his guilty plea to charges he molested a child. According to courtroom testimony, John VanTassell, of Penn Forest Township, was the legal guardian of the 12-year-old girl when he allegedly molested her between July of 2006 and February of 2007. In January he plead guilty to endangering the welfare of a child, and indecent assualt. According to a court spokesperson, VanTassell withdrew that guilty plea today.
June 25, 2009
Setbacks delayed the opening of the much anticipated new and improved Tom Quick Inn in Pike County. For the last five months dozens of workers have taken over the inside and outside of the inn, keeping locals watching and waiting for the grand opening. Back in March News-13 was told the inn would open in June, but it turned out to be a bigger job than expected. July 18th the Tom Quick will officially re-open its doors to a charity event for the Uited Way. The inn is currently accepting applications and is in the midst of hiring between 50 and 75 employee's.
June 24, 2009
Pike County Commissioners confirm they received a resignation form from Director of Elections Yolanda Goldsack. When asked about it at today's meeting the commissioners said they had just received the resignation form and did not have a chance to look over it or discuss it. Commissioners added that Goldsack has been under a lot of scrutiny over the last two years. When News-13 approached Goldsack in the elections office, she also denied comment, but noted she was still working in the office. Democratic Party leaders expressed concerns about Goldsack holding the position due to what they say is a conflict of interest. Goldsack has asked to transfer to another office.
June 24, 2009
Police have identified human remains discovered last week near Mount Pocono. Pocono Mountain Regional Police say the skeletal remains are that of William Bishop who has been missing since June of 2005. His bones were discovered in a wooded area off route 940 not far from a shopping center where he was last seen. Bishop was 48 when he disappeared. He also had a medical condition which may have contributed to his death. Police say due to advanced state of decomposition the cause of death could not be determined but they do not suspect foul play was involved. A tree trimming crew working in that area last week discovered bishop's remains.
June 24, 2009
A Lehigh Township neighborhood has been left in limbo since the developer went bankrupt, leaving sidewalks incomplete and roadways unpaved. But residents living in teh Hills of Greenock development will now get a helping hand from the township. Officials say they have aquired the developer's remaining letter of credit, at the sum of around one million dollars. Officials say bids on several projects are now being accepted but it still may be some time before work begins...
June 24, 2009
Police in Mount Pocono have caught up with a man they say committed a bold bank robbery last month. 41-year-old William Ronald Curtis is accused of walking into Citizens Savings Bank on Pocono Boulevard May 29th, demanding money, and walking straight out with no disguise and about $1400. Police say he committed a similar robbery a few weeks later in Philadelphia. Both incidents were caught on surveillance video and someone who recognized Curtis tipped off authorities. He was tracked down earlier this week hiding out in Ohio. He was arrested and is now awaiting extradition back to Monroe County.
June 24, 2009
An unexpected breakfast visitor makes a stop in Weatherly. A small black bear is calling Sixth Street home. Residents say it's been picking through their garbage and coming right up onto their porches. Margaret Jeffries, a Sixth Street resident, says the bear ventured onto her deck while she was cooking eggs yesterday morning. Game Commission officials set a trap in the Weatherly neighborhood. They say last year's cubs are out on their own for the first time searching for food. The Game Commissions recommends keeping bird feeders and garbage cans inside so bears won't be attracted to the smell.
June 24, 2009
Carbon County officials are hoping to cut costs at the prison by changing the prescription drugs being taken by inmates. Some of the inmates are on expensice name bran pyschotropic drugs. Changing to a generic form could save the county thousands of dollars a month. Members of the Medical Cost Containment Board meet with medical staff at the prison earlier this month. The result, the prison board will adopt a policy explaining inmates are to be prescribed generic brand prescription drugs first. Officials are currently drafting the policy. The prison board hopes to adopt it at the next meeting.
June 24, 2009
A Coolbaugh Township man was killed after he was hit by an SUV while cutting weeds in his yeard Tuesday. 49-year old Robert Apuzzi died when he was hit along Route 196 outside of his auto-repair business. Police took the driver of the SUV, LisaMarie Ostuni to Pocono Medical Center for a blodd-alchohol test. Those results are pending. The investigation is continuing. Neighbors can't believe Apruzzi died while doing an everyday task like cutting weeds.
June 24, 2009
A driver invovled in an evening accident in Lansford is arrested for the suspicion of a DUI. The crash happened just before seven o'clock at the intersection of Spring Garden and East Abbott Streets. Witnesses tell police the driver of one car, Jared West of Lehighton, was driving at a high rate of speed when he failed to stop at the intersection causing the crash. Police say West did admit to smoking marijuana a few hours before the accident. He was arrested and taken to the hospital for a blood alcohol test. Police also found a container of marijuana near West's car. However no one took ownership of the drugs. Several people were hurt in the crash and taken to area hospitals. Lansford Police are still investigating.
June 24, 2009
An early morning high speed chase of a New Jersey man ends in Carbon County. Police say a 38-year-old Vyomesh Bhatia was driving through Schuylkill County when troopers realized he was wanted by several police departments in New Jersey. As troopers tried to stop him he led them on a high spped chase for about 16 miles. It ended in Nesquehoning where Bhatia was taken into custody. He has been arraigned on felony charges of fleeing and eluding police as well as numerous summary traffic violations. He's in Schuylkill County prison on $25,000 straight cash bail.
June 24, 2009
When it was first put on PENNDOT's 12 year plan more than 30 years ago, State Route 2001 in Pike County was already out of date. Since then it's only gotten worse. But finally some good news. PENNDOT has announced July 9th, the first phase of the three part project will go out for bid. Construction will begin in September on a four and a half mile section of road that stretches from the intersection of Route 209 in Bushkill to just north of Little Egypt Road. The first phase will take two years to complete. The entire Route 2001 project is expected to be complete by 2017.
June 23, 2009
Five years after a man was beaten with a meat cleaver in a housing development near Tannersville..police have charged a resident of the park. 66-year old Robert Giardini is accused of hitting Kevin Walker of New Jersey with the cleaver 11 times. He originally told police it was in self-defense..but police later determined the killing was over drugs. Giardini is in the Monroe County jail...he faces a hearing on the homicide charges next month.
June 23, 2009
Kidder Township Police say three men held up a group of tourists at gunpoint inside the gates of Split Rock Resort. It happened late Saturday Night around 2:30 AM. Police say the three suspects pointed an automatic gun at 5 tourists standing outside the sand bar and demanded cash. Police arrested the trio minutes after one of the victimes called 9-1-1. All three are being held at the Carbon Coutny Jail under $100,000 straight cash bail...
June 23, 2009
Police in Jim Thorpe want to know who trashed the bathrooms at Memorial Park last night. The vandalism was discovered this morning in both the mens and womans bathrooms. Officials say towel racks were ripped off, graffiti was written on stalls, and the toliets were stuffed and overflowing. About $500 worth of damage was reported. Members of borough council are offiering a $500 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the vandals. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Jim Thorpe Police Department.
June 23, 2009
The future of a playground in Palmerton is on hold. EPA testing has determined the playground of Franklin Avenue has high levels of lead, arsenic and cadmium. That was found after the PTO began work to add equipment to the site. Now things are at a stand still under the school board makes a decision on what to do with the land.
June 23, 2009
It's a small operation offering a major service to pet owners and its the first of its kind in Monroe County. Today, the Eastern PA Animal Alliance opened a clinic dedicated solely to the spaying and neutering of dogs and cats. With the recent closing of the Monroe County Animal shelter, pet lovers tell News 13 it couldn't have come at a better time. The clinic, located in Brodheadsville, is open five days a week. Spay and neuter services are offered at $60-$150.
June 22, 2009
Authorities are on the brink of identifying skeletal remains found in Mount Pocono. A forensic examination done by an expert anthropologist over the weekend revealed some identifying characteristics about the bones. Leading authorities to believe the remains are that of a local man. Chief Deputy Coroner, Monroe Co Jody Hutton the anthropologist he was able to identify some physical characteristics on the bones that lead us to believe that it is an individual that previously was reported missing. Hutton says they've determined the bones belong to a white man between the age of 45 and 55. Police won't release his identity pending confirmation of dental records and notification of next of kin. The remains were discovered last Thursday down an embankment on Route 940.
June 22, 2009
A several million dollar renovation project is officially underway at the Hawley Silk Mill. Crews are in the process of removing walls and ceilings. Creating a new entrance which will provide access to over 16 thousand square feet of professional office space and over the next several weeks design teams will be assembled and project plans will be developed. Tenants for one of the buildings on the property are already in place. Preliminary plans for the property include mixed commercial, retail and educational use... Hawley Silk Mill officials hope this development will bring more opportunities to the borough of Hawley.
June 22, 2009
Water tests have cleared Gouldsboro Lake to reopen. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources closed the lake last week because of high bacteria counts found in water samples. The 250-acre lake is the main attraction at Gouldsboro State Park. The lake was closed for three days but the state now says test results are within acceptable limits.
June 22, 2009
A woman was trapped for nearly an hour on the Lehigh River when several rafts became tangled on a log. It happened on Saturday afternoon during a guided rafting trip by the Pocono Whitewater company. The 47-year-old was pinned against a log and several overturned rafts before rescuers could reach her. They all eventually made it safely to shore. The woman was treated and released from Lehigh Valley Hospital with minor leg injuries...
June 22, 2009
A Monroe County man has admitted to shooting and killing his son on Father's Day. 62-year old Bernard Uckele shot his son, Justin in the chest of their Jackson Township home..after he tried to break up a fight between his daughter and Justin's live-in-girlfriend. When Justin arrived home after the fight..Uckele said he shot him. Police don't know why. Uckele was arrested a short time later in Blakeslee. He admitted to using a 44-magnum.. He faces an open count of homicide.
June 22, 2009
A leak in Lehighton's new pool appears to be under control. Officials shut down the pool last week after they discovered a leak in a return line. The past week's rain delayed crews from fixing it immediately. But thanks to a break in the weather All State Technology has found and repaired the leak. And today they reconnected lines. The Lehighton borough manager John Wagner apologizes to the community for having to shut down the pool. He notes crews won't pour concrete over the pipes until Wednesday. This allows them to monitor them. And they plan to re-open the pool tomorrow. Officials attribute the leak to a bad part. All repair work is being done at no cost to the borough.
June 22, 2009
A Nesquehoning woman is charged in connection with the death of a man in December 2008. According to police, 20-year-old Felicia Bower bought nine bags of heroin December first in the borough. Later that night she injected some of it into 44-year-old Kenneth Kowalski. A short time later he was found unresponsive by bower. Emergency services pronounced Kowalski dead at the scene. Toxkicology findings attribute his death to adverse alcohol and drug effects including heroin. Over the weekend Bower was charged with numerous counts including felony drug delivery resulting in death and involuntary manslaughter.
June 19, 2009
Carbon County officials are contemplating putting tasers into the hands of park rangers after an incident at Mauch Chunk Lake Park last month. According to reports, a scuffle broke out involving around 20 campers. Police were called to the scene to assist the rangers in what officials say grew into a physical confrontation. Now officials say rangers need better protection. Park officials say it's still too soon to tell when the rangers will start carrying the taser guns...
June 19, 2009
One of the most impressive and prominent homes in all of Carbon County is getting a major makeover. Speaker of the House Keith McCall delivered $500,000 in state money to restore the Asa Packer Mansion in Jim Thorpe. The Mansion Committee says the money is much needed. The money will help restore the front porch, carpeting, walls, and ceilings. A new heating and air conditioning system will also be installed. About 20,000 people visit the Asa Packer Mansion every year.
June 19, 2009
A fire damaged the basement of a buidling that used to house the law office of former Stroudsburg attorney Raymond Kashimba. The blaze damaged some papers in the office and police are trying to determine if some of those papers were old client's files. The blaze is undetermined. What is even more mysterious is the fact that attorney Kashimba has not been heard from in more than a year...and many believe he may have "abandoned" his law practice. No one was hurt in the fire..police are trying to determine if Kashimba's "disappearance" is related to the fire.
June 18, 2009
Many Pocono business owners are loathing the rain soaked spring, but one popular tourist attraction loves the extra water. Whitewater rafting companies say when it rains a lot, the rapids and waves get bigger. Dam releases every other weekend also pack a punch and attract more adventure seekers to the area.
June 18, 2009
Pennsylvania American Water Company is asking for some steep rate hikes. The request filed with the state Public Utility Commission today asks for rate hike of almost 30-percent in communities like Blue Mountain Lakes to more than 50-percent in Pocono Farms. According to the company’s request - the proposed increase is necessary to obtain additional funds for new utility plants - higher production costs and employment benefits. The P-U-C voted to investigate the request for the next seven months before making a decision. More info on the web.
http://www.puc.state.pa.us/general/press_releases/press_releases.aspx?ShowPR=2279
June 18, 2009
A Wayne County man originally charged with taking part in a murder plot is pleading guilty to lesser charges today. 25-year old David Gower entered a guilty plea to misdemeanor charges of criminal conspiracy. David and Jonathon Gower were originally charged with conspiring with 17 year old Patrick Stephen to kill Stephen’s mother Patricia. Police uncovered the plot before they were able to carry it out. The Gowers were facing felony conspiracy charges and were set to go to trial in July. David Gower’s plea may be the result of a deal but that hasn’t been confirmed by the Wayne County District Attorney’s office.
June 18, 2009
Gouldsboro Lake is now closed to swimmers because of high bacteria levels in the water. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources closed the lake today because of high bacteria counts found in water samples taken Monday. The 250-acre lake is the main attraction at Gouldsboro State Park. The lake will remain closed to swimmers until levels fall to those acceptable for swimming. Officials say the park remains open for other activities like fishing - boating and hiking.
June 18, 2009
Elevated lead levels are found in land proposed for a playground in Palmerton. The Environmental Protection Agency and The Department of Environmental Protection tested the "coal bow recreation area" along Franklin Avenue. Officials shared the results to the Palmerton School Board earlier this week. Screening samples showed elevated leves of lead, arsenic and other metals in the soil. A spokesperson from the EPA says their numbers however are set for long time exposure. If a child lived on the land the numbers wouldn't be acceptable. The EPA and DEP have recommended the school board hire an enivronmental firm to study the results. The firm will then be able to make suggestions of clean-up options. The school board voted unanimously to hire Barry Isett and Associates to oversee the environmental consulting for $3,900. Clean-up options could include digging out the contaiminated soil or covering it.
June 18, 2009
A tree-trimmer found some skelatal remains off of Route 940 in Mount Pocono. Police believe the remains are that of a person in their mid 30's...and likely have been there for more than a year. They will call in an anthropologist to study the bones more. Pocono Mountain Regional Police are focusing in on a particular missing persons case from a few years ago to determine if the remains are that person. That persons disappearance is not considered suspicious by police. It could take a few weeks to identify the remains.
June 17, 2009
It's been a year since the ESSA bank in Blakeslee was robbed and now police have two people charged with the crime. The robbery happened February 13th of last year, when one man entered the bank, demanded money and left in a waiting getaway car. Police were able to identify the driver and arrested 25 year old Anthony Grandy of Greentown. Grandy then identified the robber as 21 year old Edward Duncan of Hawley. Duncan was tracked to New York where he was jailed for other bank robberies in Nassau County. It took awhile for Duncan to be returned to Pennsylvania. A hearing has been set for the two next week.
June 17, 2009
A Pike County man is arrested for the rape of a child. Police say 35 year old Alan Weist committed the crimes while babysitting the child between October 2004 and June 2007. It happened at the escape development in Greene Township when the victim was eleven. Weist is in the Pike County Jail awaiting a hearing.
June 17, 2009
Police in Wayne County are searching for two people who distracted an elderly couple outside their home and then stole items inside. The two victims were working outside yesterday afternoon north of Rileyville corners on Route 191. A man approached them offering to install linoleum tile in their home. While they spoke, another person entered their home and removed 12 hundred dollars and the victim's medical cards. Police say the first suspect was between 60 and 70 years of age – standing 6 feet tall, weighing about 250 pounds, and was clean shaven with grey hair. He was driving a black four door car. Police are asking for tips to help identify the thieves and warning residents about the scam.
June 17, 2009
Domestic violence isn't just between husbands and wives. It can happen to anybody in a close, personal relationship. The Domestic Violence Service Center has an office in Lehighton. They offer free and confidential help to anyone who's being abused at home. If you're being abused and would like help, contact the center anytime at 1-800-424-5600.
June 17, 2009
Police are calling an East Stroudsburg teenager a hero after she saved the life of a drowning 8-year-old boy. It happened at the swimming pool in Dansbury Park. Authorities say 17-year-old Cynthia Brown was on lifeguard duty when she noticed the young boy unconscious in the deep end of the pool. Police say that's when she dove in and with the help of his mother was able to pull him out. He was unresponsive and Brown immediately began to administer rescue breathing. The boy was taken to Pocono Medical Center as a precaution. He is doing fine.
June 17, 2009
A man is shot after what police say was a domestic disturbance inside their Jim Thorpe home. It happened around 10PM Tuesday evening along the 200 block of South Street. Police say 26-year-old James Freiling shot his uncle David Freiling in the waist after an argument. The elder Freiling was flown to Saint Lukes Hospital for his injuries. James Freiling is being held at the Carbon County Jail under $100,000 straight cash bail. He's charged with numerous counts of aggrevated and simple assault as well as reckless endangerment...
June 17, 2009
The Palmerton Area School District is working on a solution for students wishing to study a musical instrument. In april the board voted to eliminate music lessons during the school day. Parents were upset fearing their children wouldn't be able to take instrumental lessons after school due to transportatin and other iusses. Last night, Superintendent Carol Boyce announced very preliminary plans for lessons. She says she's been in contact with the Community Music School Program. They're associated with the Allentown Symphony. Right now Boyce is talking to program officials to figure out a cost effective way of having members of the symphony teach music lessons to Palmerton children. She stresses the idea is very preliminary and she'll update the public as information becomes available.
June 17, 2009
The leaking pipe at Baer Memorial Park's new pool has been found but mother nature is delaying repairs. The Lehighton pool was closed Monday after officials realized a return pipe was leaking. Borough manger John Wagner tells News-13 the pipe has been located but due to the very wet ground and several other pipes in the area - crews have to dig up the spot by hand. Wagner expects the contractors to start the digging tomorrow (if rain holds off). If all goes according to plan the pool should be re-opened in time for the weather.
June 17, 2009
The Tamaqua police force is about to get a whole lot stronger. Last year a group of community members formed a "camera committee" after concerns of safety in the borough came up. Their goal: to put survelliance cameras through out the town. Last night those members announced to borough council they received a $167,000 grant to start their camera project. The group is seeking other grants to increase the number of cameras. They'd also like to install cameras capable of license plate recognition.
June 17, 2009
Two are injured after a rollover crash last night in Lower Towamensing Township. It happened on Blue Mountain Drive just after seven. According to police, 19-year-old Keith Buskirk lost control of his pickup while attempting to pass another vehicle. His truck left the roadway and hit an embankment rolling his truck. Buskirk received minor injuries and his passenger 21-year-old Daniel Meier suffered moderate injuries. Both were taken to Lehigh Valley Hospital.
June 17, 2009
We now know why a helicopter crashed last summer at a charity golf ball drop in Schuylkill County. The helicopter crashed August 22nd at the Access Services golf ball drop in Barnesville. The National Transportation Safety Board has determined the pilot's failure to maintain control of the helicopter during the low-speed, low-altitude maneuver which resulted in a loss of tail rotor effectiveness probably resulted in the crash. Examination of the wreckage revealed no evidence of any mechanical malfunction or failure. The piolt did not hold a current medical certificate, and logbooks indicate he did not possess a current flight review. Also, no annual inspection had been logged for the helicopter in the prior year. The 79-year old pilot and his passenger were seriously injured in that crash.
June 16, 2009
A Pike County woman who tested positive for swine flu has died. The unidentified 48-year old woman was receiving treatment at Bon Secours Hospital in Port Jervis New York. She died Sunday. Officials say the woman had another medical condition that contributed to her death and she had been ill for a week before seeking medical attention. The victim has not been identified by authorities. Tests Monday confirmed she had swine.
June 16, 2009
Two Monroe county men are arrested after police say they found a substantial amount of heroin during a traffic stop. Pocono Mountain Regional Police stopped 23-year old Cody Zipp of long pond and 21-year old Richard Goldstein of Swiftwater along Route 611 in Mount Pocono last night. Officers say the two men were acting nervous so they searched the car with a K-9 unit. Inside they found nine bundles of heroin packaged for individual sale. Officers say while searching the vehicle Goldstein tried to throw several bags of heroin under the police cruiser. Both men also had a large amount of cash. They’re being held on drug possession charges tonight.
June 16, 2009
A Pike County man charged with operating a major drug selling operation now faces more charges. Two additional counts of possession with intent to deliver drugs were added to the six charges filed against 36 year old john McManus of Birchwood lakes. Police raided his home in April - uncovering cocaine, heroin, ecstasy and hydrocodone pills along with 20 thousand dollars cash and 21- hundred dollars in counterfeit currency. One count of forgery was dropped by a district magistrate today. The rest of the charges now go onto a higher court and McManus remains locked up on half a million dollars bail.
June 16, 2009
A long detour is coming for people traveling through Bushkill next month. Part of Route 209 will close for three weeks to repair a bridge. The national park service says they plan to close the Bushkill Creek bridge on Route 209 beginning July ninth. The bridge is down to one lane for repairs right now. During the closure the bridge will be raised to repair the supporting structure. The National Park Service is planning a four mile detour for normal traffic onto Winona Falls - Sugar Mountain - and Bushkill Falls Roads. Trucks over 15 tons will need to find another route.
June 16, 2009
Part of Route 447 in Wayne County is closed to traffic for the rest of the week. Penn-dot is inspecting a bridge over the Wallenpaupack Creek near Newfoundland. To look at parts of the bridge - road crews need to remove some of the asphalt. Penn-dot says that part of Route 447 could be closed through Friday.
June 16, 2009
An attempted robbery in Jackson Township ended with a popular gas station owner being shot and two suspects on the loose. It happened early this morning at the Shell station on Route 715 and Neola Road. Police say around 3am Tuesday morning two men wearing ski masks broke into the station's storeroom but were surprised when they found the owner inside. He is identified by customers as "Danny". Police say he was shot by one of the suspects in the chest with a small-caliber handgun but is expected to survive. Regular customers showed up to the station to give their support. They say Danny is a friendly-man who loves his family and customers. Police continue their search for the suspects who were caught on video surveillance from the store.
June 16, 2009
Weeks of wet and stormy weather have put a damper on the start of the summer tourism season. The soggy conditions are keeping campers, bikers, and hikers away from typically busy locations this time of year. Shop owners are hoping to eventually see some sunshine as th heart of the summer tourism season draws near...
June 15, 2009
A volunteer firefighter charged with stealing thousands of dollars in Pike County. State Police say over 95-thousand dollars was stolen from the Promised Land Fire Department over the past ten years. Today charges are filed against the man police say is responsible - the department's former treasurer. 44-year old Stuart Ferber was arraigned on theft charges this morning. Police say he used a debit card to access fire department accounts. Department members were unaware of the card and approached police last January when they discovered money was missing. According to court papers Ferber admitted to taking the money when interviewed by police. Ferber resigned and offered to make a ten thousand dollar payment. A family member then asked firefighters not to cash it because Ferber would need it to hire a lawyer. According to police Ferber spent the money locally and on trips to Atlantic City and camping in Mansfield Pennsylvania. An audit of the department's books shows 96-thousand dollars is missing. Ferber was released without bail today. He faces another hearing next month.
June 15, 2009
Police are looking for a robber who is accused of assaulting a man at the Mount Airy Casino. A 69-year old New Jersey man tells police he was robbed in a casino bathroom Saturday afternoon. The suspect tore the victim's wallet from his back pocket and fled through the casino's bus lobby entrance. The suspect is described as a white male 35 to 40 years of age. He had short balding hair - was wearing a navy blue t-shirt and jeans. He fled in a gray Nissan. Anyone with information is asked to contact the mount airy state police officer at 570-243-0006.
June 15, 2009
Police are also investigating an accident that claimed a life when a car fell on top a driver along Interstate 380. That incident happened around 10:30 Saturday morning in Coolbaugh Township. The driver apparently stopped alongside the road to fix a mechanical problem. He jacked up the car but the jack slipped and the car fell on top of him. State police have not identified the victim yet but according to an obituary published in a Scranton newspaper it was 24-year old Kyle Vangarelli of Jessup.
June 15, 2009
A motorcycle accident in New Jersey has claimed the life of a Monroe County man. Police report 44-year old Anthony Louis of Southridge drive in Price Township was killed around four Sunday afternoon. The accident happened on interstate 80 about ten miles into New Jersey. Police say Louis was speeding when the cycle slid off the road on a curve and hit a guide rail. Louis was thrown off the cycle onto the road. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
June 15, 2009
The Tamaqua community celebrates as it gets $5.3 million to preserve local dams. State funding is coming to the borough to repair the lower and upper Owl Creek Dams. The projects will help protect about 500 residents and three businesses that could be affected should the dam fail. State senator Dave Argall gathered with area officials to discuss the project today. Design work is expected to start soon. However, physical construction won't begin for another few years.
June 15, 2009
Lehighton's pool at Bear Memorial Park temporarily closes down. Today repair workers were on scene to fix a leak in one of the return pipes. Borough manager John Wagner told News-13 last week that despite rumors the pool is not closing for good, and it's not in danger of collapsing. The pool is closed today and will also be closed tomorrow.
June 15, 2009
A Slatington man is arrested after allegedly threatening to shoot residents in Heidelberg Township. It happened early Sunday morning. According to police, 25-year-old Steven Kutz threatened to shoot two men in the 8600 block of Lodge Drive. It was also reported that Kutz drove his vehicle at the two men as they were standing in their front yard. Kutz was arrested and charged with several counts including reckless endangerment, DUI and terroristic threats.
June 12, 2009
Local groups are joining efforts to help the 21 victims of yesterday's fire in Tamaqua. Three families including five adults and 16 children lost everything. The Tamaqua Salvation Army and the American Red Cross are helping the families. However community donations are needed as well. Clothing donations are being accepted through the Tamaqua Salvation Army - children's items are needed most. You can also send monetary donations to the Tamaqua Slavation Army. Write in the memo "Railroad Street fire victims fund."
June 12, 2009
Vandals strike a Schuylkill County park leaving behind thousands of dollars in damages. According to police, vandals struck the West Penn Township park last night. Pavilion light bulbs, soda coolers, trash cans and benches were broken and overturned. A new swing set was damaged as well. The most severe damage came to a wooden train set dedicated to the late township supervisor Curtis Houser. The front section of the engine was damaged and smoke stack ripped fromt the device. The vandals also attempted to enter a locked food catering area but failed. West Penn Township police are investigating. Anyone with information is asked to give them a call.
June 12, 2009
Visitors used to avoid the trashed and overgrown Weissport Trailhead. But today, there was cause for celebration. The important piece of the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor now provides a peaceful place to enjoy Carbon County's natural beauty. Dozens of dignitaries gathered for the official re-opening of the D & L Trailhead. The next challenge will be keeping the Trailhead beautiful for generations to come. Volunteers are always needed to help clean the trails.
June 12, 2009
A little competition and a drop in sales last month is not enough to scare executives at Mt. Airy Casino & Resort. The slot house is recovering from a nearly 10-percent loss in revenues in May and the opening of the new Sands Casino in Bethlehem last week. Mt. Airy CEO, George Toth, says they've been preparing for the revenue hit. They are also rolling out a new marketing plan that includes free events for this weekend.
June 12, 2009
A brand new million dollar medical center is coming to downtown Hawley. The land across the street from the Settlers Inn will soon be home to a two story, 64 hundred square foot medical facility. The first floor will be taken over by Comprehensive Physical Therapy and investors are hoping to add an urgent care facility and medical laboratory upstairs. Construction will begin next week and local investors plan to have it completed by January of 2010.
June 11, 2009
A Walnutport man is upgraded to fair condition after being stabbed in the head earlier this week. The incident happened at his home along Kiddie Lane Tuesday night. According to court papers, 28-year old Jennifer Jagel and 40-year-old Theodore Symer got into an argument at their home when Jagel stabbed him in the head. Symer was flown to Saint Luke's Hospital with a severe head injury. Police have charged Jaegel with aggravated and simple assault. She is being held at the Northampton County Prison under $10,000 bail.
June 11, 2009
Women's Resources, a local non-profit that works against domestic violence, is reaffirming their support of police officers, following the tragic slaying of a state trooper killed during a response to a PFA violation. Leaders of the group say the events leading up to that violent shootout highlight the importance of their work and they hope victims will not let this isolated incident discourage them from coming forward to protect themselves from domestic violence.
June 11, 2009
Fire rips through a two-family home in Tamaqua Thursday morning, leaving 21 residents homeless. It happened around 11:00AM on the 300 block of Railroad Street. Witnesses say they saw flames shooting from a bathroom electrical outlet. An eleven year old boy is being called a hero as he warned the residents their home was on fire. All 21 residents, including the boy, made it out safely. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but the Tamaqua fire chief says it does not appear to be suspicious...
June 11, 2009
25 million people have passed through the gates at Lehigh Valley International Airport since it opened in 1975. The wear and tear is finally starting to show. The airport's main terminal is getting a big make over. The shops and restaurants will all be moved to a different spot in the airport. The ceiling and floor will be totally replaced, and the airport will be up to par with modern safety regulations. The $7 million renovation project will take 16 months to complete.
June 11, 2009
Residents in one Pike County community say they no longer feel safe. After years of living behind a gate in Pine Ridge, that security has been taken away. The Pine Ridge Board says a budget shortfall is to blame. At one point 18 percent of the homeowners were not paying their yearly dues of 750 dollars. Six full time gate guards were laid off and traffic re-routed, saving the community anywhere from 85 to one hundred thousand dollars a year. Over the next several weeks landscaping will replace the gate at a price tag totaling 15 thousand dollars. That money will come out of the communities capitol improvement fund.
June 10, 2009
A Monroe County man is behind bars after police say they found marijuana growing at his home in Gilbert. Lehighton State Police say seven pot plants were found growing at the home of 37-year old Roland Paredes on Route 209. The plants and some drug paraphernalia were seized Tuesday afternoon. Paredes is being held in the Monroe County Correctional Facility.
June 10, 2009
A special flag was flown over the state capitol building in Harrisburg to honor Trooper Joshua Miller today. Miller was killed after a police chase and shoot out with a suspect in Tobyhanna Sunday night. The honor flag was raised above the capitol dome in his memory at noon today. The flag has honored police - firefighters and soldiers killed in the line of duty around the world. This is the third time the flag has flown over the state capitol since February to honor a police officer.
Funeral arrangements for trooper miller have been released. A viewing will be held Thursday at Pittston Area High School. And the funeral service will be held Friday starting at 11 am outdoors at the Pittston Area High School Stadium. Immediately following the service, there will be a funeral procession to the Lacey Street cemetery in Wyoming County. The graveside ceremony will be private. A memorial fund has been set up to benefit the family of trooper miller. Donations can be sent to:
"Josh Miller Memorial Fund"
P & G Federal Credit Union
51 Warren Street
Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania 18657
Attn: Paula Shoemaker
June 10, 2009
Demolition begins on the old Wayne County Prison Thursday and the new correctional facility officially names a warden. Acting Warden Kevin Bishop has been promoted to Warden. Bishop started as a deputy sheriff in 1991 and slowly made his way through the ranks. Commissioners received applications from all over the country for the position, but believe bishop's experience made him the best candidate. Bishop says he just wants to make sure the facility is a safe, secure learning environment for everyone. Bishop was most recently deputy warden under Craig Chalmers. Chalmers resigned back in January.
June 10, 2009
A Walnutport man is in serious condition after police say he was stabbed in the head Tuesday night. The incident happened at his home along Kiddie Lane around 9PM. According to court papers, 28-year-old Jennifer Jaegel and 40-year-old Theodore Symer got into an argument at their home when Gaegel stabbed him in the head. Symer was flown to St. Lukes Hospital with a severe head injury. Police have charged Jaegel with aggrevated and simple assault. She is being held at the Northampton County Prison under $10,000 bail...
June 10, 2009
It's fresh, local, and you can find it in downtown Stroudsburg. It's the new Main Street Farmer's Market, which opened today. The market is similar to one run on the weekends and offers the unique experience of talking directly to the growers of your food. Lalena Stirr, owner of Dutch Hill Preserves, says shopping at a farmer's market is an environmentally-friendly choice because it reduces your carbon footprint. Organizers say they are trying to make the evening market more family friendly by offering hot, free meals to parents and their children. The market runs every Wednesday from 3pm to 7pm from now until October.
June 10, 2009
The American Red Cross is closing its Lehighton office. But the agency will continue to serve Carbon County. The economy is taking a toll on the Red Cross Lehigh Valley Chapter. They need to cut expenses without impacting services. Rent, utility bills and general expenses of the North First Street office are far greater than the return. Officials say when they opened the building in 2001 they expected more activity at the office. That has not been the case. Red Cross programs and services to Carbon County will continue as normal. Training classes like first-aid and CPR will now be held at the Mahoning Valley Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. The Red Cross office in Lehighton is closing July first.
June 10, 2009
A former Slatington man is charged with involuntary manslaughter in a fire that killed his mother. According to the Lehigh County District Attorney's Office, 26-year-old Chad Lever caused the February third fire at his mothers house along West Washington Street in Slatington. His mom, 47-year-old Lisa House, was lying in bed when the blaze started. She suffered from Lou Gehrig's Disease and couldn't walk leaving her trapped on the second floor. She died at the hosptial of smoke inhalation. The DA says Lever, who now lives in Breingsville, was looking for the family's pet cat - he repeatedly flicked a lighter by the bed mattress his mom was lying on to get the cat to come out from hiding. Lever was arraigned today. He has been released on $20,000 unsecured bail.
June 9, 2009
The new Lehighton swimming pool has sprung a leak, but officials are already resolving the problem. The Recreational Director tells News-13 there's a small leak in the return line. The leak will be fixed next week, which means the pool will be closed Monday and Tuesday. 600 residents are already members of the pool. Officials say they'll stay open a little bit later once the leak is fixed to make up for the missed days.
June 9, 2009
The fastest growing region of Carbon County is about to get even more packed. It's all thanks to a new Turnpike interchange that'll bring more people into the Penn Forest-Kidder Township area. Preliminary work on the E-Z Pass only interchange started this week. Officials say traffic along busy Route 903 shouldn't be tied up too much during the construction since most of the work is happening on the side of the road. The first phase of the project involves building a new Route 903 bridge over the Northeast Extension. The entire project, with a price tag of $30 million, should be completed in the fall of 2011.
June 9, 2009
Police are searching for a man who held up a convenience store in Stroudsburg. It happened shortly after three this morning at the Pump and Pantry on West Main Street. Police say a white male grabbed the attendant, placed a box cutter to her throat and demanded money. The attendant pulled away and ran. The robber took money from the register and fled in an older model black ford bronco. Police say the robber stands five feet nine or five ten - with short hair. At the time of the robbery he was wearing a white shirt with blue sleeves and blue jeans. Stroud area regional police are investigating.
June 9, 2009
With the announcement this week of an environmental clearance for a rail link to New York City - officials say the next step is funding. The expected price tag for commuter rail service between Scranton and Hoboken is 550-million dollars. Senator Arlen Specter says the money could come from the federal stimulus package or the upcoming highway but it will probably come one piece at a time specter says the rail link has the support of other senators including New York's Charles Schumer - who would like to see the line extended all the way to Binghamton New York.
June 9, 2009
Over one hundred firefighters battled a blaze at a three story victorian home in Pike County. Authorities say they believe it was freak lightning which started the fire. The home on James Street in Milford was once the catholic church in town, but over the years has been converted and is currently occupied by two families. Residents heard an explosion around 8 AM this morning and two hours later their home was engulfed in flames. Officials say a combination of all the renovations done to the home over the years and the time of the call made for a difficult battle. Luckily all seven occupants and their two pets made it out safely. Neighbors are allowing the family to stay in one of their vacant homes until they can get back on their feet.
June 8, 2009
A Pocono Summit man has been charged with arson following a fire that destroyed a business in Monroe County early this morning. A motorist driving on Route 940 reported flames shooting from the classic homes building in Pocono Summit. By the time fire fighters from several communities arrived the building was fully involved. Pocono mountain regional police say they found evidence linking 30-year old Michael Robert Bartell junior to the fire and to a burglary of the adjacent building. He has been charged with arson and other offenses.
June 8, 2009
Authorities were on the search this weekend for a juvenile who police say ran away while in custody. 16 year old Matthew Berger of High Park New York was being transported to Florida by the safe and sound youth transportation company. When the group pulled into McDonalds in Lords Valley, Berger fled into the woods. An extensive search was conducted of the area with no luck. Authorities later learned Berger was picked up and driven to Port Jervis. Berger was located in New York and has since been taken back into custody.
June 8, 2009
State troopers from across the state are mourning the death of Swiftwater State Policeman Joshua Miller after a shootout and chase. The 34-year old Miller is a 6-year veteran of the state police. He was shot and killed as he tried to take a man into custody after a chase through Monroe and Northampton County Sunday night. That chase ended near Routes 611 and 423 in Tobyhanna. Police say miller was shot by 31-year old Daniel Autenreith after Autenreith kidnapped his 9-year old son. Now police are trying to determine how he got his hands on the 9-mm handgun. His wife had a protection from abuse order against him.
Trooper Joshua Miller is from the Pittston area and leaves behind a wife and three children. His wife Angela, is a trooper also. Today tributes to trooper Miller poured in from all over the area. flags at the Swiftwater barracks. And barracks all across the state are flying at half staff. Some Monroe County residents brought flowers. Many did not even know trooper miller. Fellow troopers from Swiftwater formed an honor guard outside the barracks to get ready for the procession that brought trooper miller's body home.
Meanwhile, at the direction of Governor Rendell - all flags on state facilities and throughout the commonwealth should be lowered to half staff in memory of trooper miller. Flags should remain at half staff through Friday - June 12th.
June 8, 2009
A former employee at a Monroe County day care center is facing criminal charges of child endangerment. State police say 55-year old Rahda Ramdass of Bushkill was responsible for the care of a 16-month old girl who wandered away from 4-Kidz Christian Daycare Center in April. Neighbors saved the girl from being hit by a car along business route 209 in Smithfield Township. The girl was not hurt. The state department of public welfare shut down the day care center a week later. The department is still investigating and reviewing its license. Ramdass faces a hearing before a district magistrate on that child endangerment charge.
June 8, 2009
Last year it was too dry, this year it's too wet...Mother Nature once again is wreaking havoc on local farmers. The wet spring is causing farmers to be unable to harvest their first hay crops of the season. Typically hay should have been cut weeks ago, before the seeds begin to bud. But there hasn't been enough dry days in a row for harvesting to begin. Local farmers say they are hoping for a dry weekend so they can harvest their hay early next week...
June 8, 2009
The State House of Representatives gained a new member today. Republican Jerry Knowles was sworn in as the State Representative of the 124th District. Voters picked the Schuylkill County native to take the seat during a special election last month. Knowles is no stranger to the position. He served as Legislative Aide to then-State Representative, now-Senator David Argall for many years. Argall took over the Senate seat of the late Jim Rhoades earlier this year.
June 8, 2009
A local Senator promises to protect hundreds of jobs at a local plant. Air Products's Hometown plant produces a specific type of nitrogen gas. Legislation proposed by two out of state congressmen puts the future of that plant in jeopardy. The bill would tax the nitrogen gas and cost Air Products an estimated $75 million a year. Tony Walck, the plant's Union President, says the company would ship the jobs overseas to Mexico, China, or Korea where there are no emission controls. Today, Walck asked Senator Arlen Specter for help. He's hoping Specter will fight for lighter regulations on nitrogen gas taxing.
June 5, 2009
Business owners may me in for a slow time at this weekend's Pocono 500. Tens of thousands of people from all over are gathering for the race but sales may sag this year due to the slumping economy. Vendors tell News 13 the money is still coming in but fans are definitely cutting back on their spending. The wet weather may also be to blame for the slow start. Sunny skies are expected for the rest of the weekend and that may help things to pick up. The big race begins on Sunday at 2pm.
June 5, 2009
A Monroe County man is under arrest – charged with breaking into the home of a former girlfriend and holding a knife to her throat. Pocono Mountain Regional Police say Darren O’Hern junior was under a protection from abuse order and out on bail from a previous assault on his former girlfriend. Police say the victim called 9-1-1 last night after O’Hern broke into the home and assaulted her. Later, officers found O’Hern walking along Route 940 near the entrance to the Camelot Forest community. O’Hern fled but was apprehended a short distance away.
June 5, 2009
Monroe County Crime Stoppers is trying to crack a case of some expensive guitars stolen from a church. Three guitars were taken during an apparent burglary at the new covenant church near Brodheadsville. Owner Kevin Gallagher says he responded to the church march 31st when the church’s alarm system was activated. Gallagher did not notice anything suspicious but the next day he noticed the three guitars were missing from his office. the missing guitars include a 1959 Gibson Les Paul guitar valued at 100-thousand dollars and a 1962 Fender Stratocaster guitar valued at 20-thousand. Monroe County Crimestoppers is offering a cash reward for information that leads an arrest in that burglary investigation.
June 5, 2009
A large bird missing in Wayne County since Saturday has been spotted. The pet emu was seen yesterday just north of Bethany. It escaped from its pen in Dyberry Township after being frightened by a neighbor's dog. Anyone who sees the ostrich-like bird is asked not to try to capture it because it can be viscous. Instead call the owner Andy Burr at 570-253-1794 immediately day or night.
June 5, 2009
Several area police departments will be out in force this race weekend. Heavy traffic is expected across the area because of the race particularly on Sunday. More than 100-thousand people are expected to visit throughout the weekend. D-U-I checkpoints are planned to make sure it's a safe trip. Special traffic patterns are also planned. Before the race Sunday Route 115 becomes one way southbound from I-80. The change starts at 7am until all race traffic has entered the track grounds. After the race 115 becomes one way northbound from the track until all parking lots are cleared. People not headed to the race are advised to avoid the area.
June 5, 2009
A decade-old trash dump is finally getting cleaned up in Towamensing Township. Contractors moved in on the Deer Lane property early Friday morning. The entire project is costing the township $18,500, but it comes as a relef to neighbors who say they've endured the stench for too long. Work is expected to last about two weeks to remove the thousands of pounds of trash that's accumulated over the past ten years...
June 5, 2009
It's day two for the search of a Bethlehem man who was last seen walking in the Delaware State Forest in Pike County on Wednesday. Authorities have started a grid search of a nine mile area stretching into the Hemlock Farms Community. Yesterday around 100 volunteers combed the area in Blooming Grove Township, but there is still no sign of 33 year old Jason Walton. Walton is described as 5'11, approximately 150 pounds with a thin build and reddish brown hair. He was last seen wearing blue jeans and a dark sweatshirt. Authorities say he is on medication for a mental illness. If you have any information on the whereabouts of Walton your asked to dial 9-1-1.
June 4, 2009
The Wayne County Republican Party has chosen acting Sheriff Mark Steelman as their candidate to run for the seat next fall. Steelman has been holding the job temporarily since Sheriff Charles Morelli passed away in March. Steelman was chosen as the Republican Party candidate this week. The Democratic Party is expected to choose a candidate in mid June. Voters will then elect a new sheriff in a special election on November third which is the same day as the general election. The candidate chosen for the post will fill out the remainder of Morelli's term which lasts through the end of 2011.
June 4, 2009
Drivers travelling part of Route 314 in Monroe County should expect more delays. P-P-L has been running underground power lines along route 314 since January. Work was expected to be finished by now but P-P-L says they may not be finished until the end of June. Traffic is being detoured over Olde Schoolhouse Road, Swiftwater Road, Carlton Road, Woodland Avenue, Routes 611 and 940. Drivers should allow for extra time when traveling through the area.
June 4, 2009
The sky is not the limit in Smithfield Township. But after two years of wrangling, the owners of a skydiving company are asking the township's zoning board to dismiss violations against them. The township claims Sky's The Limit, which operates from a hangar at the Pocono-Stroudsburg Airport, is not only giving skydiving lessons, but using it to conduct retail operations not permitted in an industrial zone. Neighbors have complained that the company's activities are disruptive. But other residents News 13 spoke to today say they haven't noticed a problem. The issue will continue at the next Smithfield Township zoning board meeting, scheduled June 15th.
June 4, 2009
Carbon County Commissioners want to set the record straight...a local manufacturing plant is not shutting down. Ametek Corporation in Nesquehoning compounds plastic for the automotive industry. Questions were raised about the company's future after a Mahoning Township Supervisor claimed the corporation is closing its local plant. Commissioners feel the comments made by Mahoning Township Supervisor George Stawnyczyj criticized Ametek and were "out of line". Ametek officials told the County Commissioners they are not shutting down the local plant.
June 4, 2009
Carbon County hopes to get federal money to keep people off the streets and in their homes. Commissioners say the county's eligible for more than $324,000 in homelessness prevention money. The county's Action Committee will use the money to help people pay their rent and utility bills so they don't get kicked out of their homes. Commissioners are excited about the grant because it doesn't require a matching amount from the county.
June 4, 2009
A junk pile that neighbors say was home to rabid skunks has finally been cleaned up in Jim Thorpe. Two months ago the borough zoning officer cited the homeowners for their piles of trash in the backyard. Neighbor Mark McCloskey's dogs were bit by rabid skunks that he says came from the pile. The site has since been cleaned up, and Mark and his neighbors are glad to see the eyesore removed. Residents have also complained about other trash sites in the neighborhood. Borough officials say those homeowners have been cited, and work has begun to remove the junk...
June 3, 2009
A Pike County man charged with growing thousands of marijuana plants in his home was in court today. 59 year old Kenneth Kraeger stood before District Magistrate Debbie Fischer for his preliminary hearing. Kraeger's attorney asked for a bail reduction which was denied. Kraeger's home in Blooming Grove Township was raided last Thursday by State Police. They uncovered around 15 hundred marijuana plants with a street value of over half a million dollars. Kraeger remains locked up at the pike county correctional facility on five hundred thousand dollars bail. Kreaegers’ son - 22 year old Daniel Rivera was charged with disorderly conduct today as he yelled obscenities at reporters while they tried to interview his father.
A second person charged with growing marijuana in Pike County was also in court. 40 year old Diana Mari’s home in Dingman Township was raided one day after Kraegers. Police say the two were friends. Hundreds of plants were found in Mari’s home with a street value totaling over one million dollars. During her preliminary hearing police reviewed 66 photographs of the drugs and equipment taken inside her home the night she was arrested. Mari told police Kraeger paid her between three and ten thousand dollars a month to grow the pot. A fourth drug charge was tacked on today during the hearing. She's currently being held at the pike county correctional facility on one hundred fifty thousand dollars bail.
June 3, 2009
The search for a warden at the Monroe County jail continues. In the meantime, one of the County Commissioners will take over the lead role. Monroe County Commissioner Donna Asure assumed full responsibility of the jail this week. She already sits on the county's prison board and has been deeply involved in trying to find a new warden. She says the move should not be considered shocking because the welfare of the jail has always been a priority for the commissioners. Asure says she will continue spending several days per week at the Snydersville prison. She says her administrative role will not interfere with her job as commissioner.
June 3, 2009
Police have stopped another person they say was transporting drugs through the Poconos on Interstate 80. A traffic stop yesterday afternoon near the Scotrun exit led to the arrest of 40-year old Thomas Ellington of Long Island. Police say he was following too close to another car. Officers searched Ellington’s vehicle and found 100 grams of suspected powder cocaine. The drugs may be worth about ten thousand dollars.
June 3, 2009
Plans are moving forward on a new sewer line in Monroe County. Pocono Township officials say they are approaching phase two of the project. It will connect businesses along Route 611 with the treatment plant in Stroudsburg. Supervisor Jane Cilurso calls it a major project. The line will allow Sanofi-Pasteur to expand its manufacturing plant when finished. It should be operational by November of 2012.
June 3, 2009
A six foot tall bird is on the loose in Wayne County. The 23 year old emu escaped from its pen this weekend in Dyberry Township when a neighborhood dog gave it a scare. The ostrich like bird was part of Big Bear Farm, a zoo operated by Andy Burr back in the 80's and 90's. Its now been three days since the bird has been spotted and Burr says he's not sure if its still alive. The Australian native stands about 6 feet tall, it's a gray brown color and looks like an ostrich. Burr says they can run 35 miles per hour and are dangerous. Burr is asking anyone who sees the emu to call him day or night at 570-253-1794.
June 3, 2009
Everybody's looking to save a few extra bucks in this lagging economy. But, one thing you should never skimp on is your health. Doctors in the Lehigh Valley are seeing a troubling new health trend. Skipping medical appointments may save you some money, but in the long run it's not worth it. Doctors say preventative check-ups and screenings are still important. You should also never stop taking a medication without checking with your doctor first. Lehigh Valley Health Network has some information on its website about managing medical bills. Log onto www.lvh.org for more information.
June 3, 2009
A fight continues to fix a dangerous intersection in Washington Township. Four years ago, officials tried to get some shrubbery scaled back at a busy intersection along Route 873. But it's kept growing and their power is limited. Motorists are complaining they simply can't see the traffic on Route 873 when turning off of Shady Nook Road. Officials say the property owner is not breaking any laws by planting the shrubs and trees, but they do say she's creating a dangerous situation. Community members concerned for their safety are now stepping in. A four to five page petition is going around. Township officials hope the owner will remove some bushes, but if not they plan to take the petition to the state for some help.
June 3, 2009
A strange twist in the Tamaqua manhunt yesterday. Tamaqua Police tell News-13 the suspect they arrested failed to show any legal ID and he claims to be juvenile. Under guidelines, police had no chose but to release him. The incident began when police pulled over a truck with four occupants for speeding. Investigators suspected they were illegal aliens. Three of the suspects fled from the scene including one still clad in handcuffs. Court papers identify him as 23-year old Fernando Aragon Gmero. Police are still searching for him. Anyone with information is asked to contact Tamaqua Police.
June 3, 2009
Five puppies born Easter Sunday are being called miracles...Their mother survived the Pazzazz Kennel explosion three months ago. The seven week old chow puppies signal a new sign of life at the kennel where dozens of dogs died in the tragic fire back in March. Owner Karen Tracy says the new puppies represent a bright future at the kennel. Chows typically begin their show dog careers around six months of age. As of now Tracy says she still hasn't found names for the five puppies...
June 2, 2009
What began as a routine traffic stop turned into a manhunt as three suspected illegal aliens fled on foot from Tamaqua Police. It began around 9 am Tuesday morning as plice pulled over a truck for speeding. When the four occupants failed to show proper ID, police placed two in handcuffs. One handcuffed suspect fled into the hills. Two others also escaped. Pilice did apprehend Oscar Guzman from Allentown. He is now facing charges of disorderly conduct and escape...
June 2, 2009
What began as a routine traffic stop turned into a manhunt as three suspected illegal aliens fled on foot from Tamaqua Police. It began around 9 am Tuesday morning as plice pulled over a truck for speeding. When the four occupants failed to show proper ID, police placed two in handcuffs. One handcuffed suspect fled into the hills. Two others also escaped. Pilice did apprehend Oscar Guzman from Allentown. He is now facing charges of disorderly conduct and escape...
June 2, 2009
Police in Monroe County are searching for the owner of a large amount of cash. Stroud Area Police Lieutenant Brian Kimmins says in January an undisclosed amount of money was found by three sisters in Stroud Township. The girls thought someone had mistakenly dropped the bills. So they turned it in to police. Officers kept it for several months to see if anybody would come by but nobody has appeared. Kimmins says the cash was distinctly packaged so anyone coming forward to claim it must be able to identify it. The department will hold the money for seven more days. If no one comes forward, it will go back to the sisters who found it.
June 2, 2009
PennDot is cautioning drivers about increasing number of bear and turkey on highways. In the past two weeks..PennDot has had to respond to two bear being hit by cars on Interstate 80. Workers say they have also seen a huge increase in the number of turkeys hit on highways also. They are urging drivers to slow down.
June 2, 2009
Money from the federal stimulus package will help pay for a bridge replacement in Wayne County. A five-hundred thousand dollar contact has been awarded to a Lackawanna County contractor to replace the Ariel Creek Bridge on Ledgedale Road. The existing structure is a steel I-beam which will be replaced with concrete. Penn DOT expects this job to be completed may of next year. This is the third bridge project funded by stimulus money in Wayne County.
June 2, 2009
Inspections will slow traffic this week on the Dingmans Bridge in Pike County. One lane traffic is expected during the first two weeks of June. Drivers should expect short delays during the day. The bridge's owners are asking drivers to be patient and slow down as they approach the work zone. The annual bridge maintenance is expected to close the bridge for up to a week in the fall.
June 2, 2009
More suspected cases of swine flu have been confirmed in Monroe County and new cases are being reported in Pike County. The state health department says it was monitoring six possible cases of H1M1 flu in Monroe. Those cases have now been confirmed by tests. Two previous cases were confirmed last week -bringing the total to eight. In Pike County one case has been confirmed and another case is probable. These are the first cases reported in Pike. In surrounding counties, Lehigh has 9, Schuylkill has 3, Carbon has 2 and Northampton has one confirmed case of the H1N1 virus.
June 2, 2009
In another sign of the times, one of Monroe County's strongest non-profit organizations' is changing its mission. Local United Way officials say donations remain high but the tough economy and donor designations is sending more money out of the area. That could impact many popular programs traditionally funded by the United Way, but the organizations' vice president says they must evolve to meet the new realities facing Monroe County. "We're going in a different direction..we're going to be more focused..we need to target the fewer dollars we're receiving to come up with a new way to raise more dollars, said John Casella. He says efforts will be put towards priority needs around the county but they need to hear from more local citizens and conduct assessments to determine what those are.
June 2, 2009
A Washington Township bridge gets inspected. A PennDot contractor was out on Route 873 inspecting the bridge over the Lehigh River today. There are lane restrictions in both directions. The northbound lane was restricted today - while the southbound lane will be restricted tomorrow as the inspection continues. PennDot says the inspection is just routine work.
June 2, 2009
An Allentown man becomes the sixth person to be rescued from a Carbon County hiking trail this year. According to resuce crews, it took nearly two hours to bring the man to safety at Glen Onoko Falls near Jim Thorpe. The rescue began around 4:30 lastnight when the man fell about ten feet off a cliff landing in a stream. It took crews an hour to bring him up from the creek and another hour to get him out to the access road. The victim was flown by helicopter to the hospital. His condition is not known.
June 2, 2009
The driver of a tractor trailer escapes serious injury after rolling his rig early this morning. It happened just after six on Interstate 80 in Kidder Township. Police say 39-year-old Javier Garcia of New Jersey was getting off 80 west at exit 277 when his truck went off the ramp in a curve. The rig rolled onto its driver side. Garcia received a cut on his elbow but declined medical treatment. The exit was closed for several hours - it reopened around nine. Fern Ridge State Police are investigating.
June 2, 2009
The Architectural Review Board and Milford Borough Council have officially approved the Milford Library's Concept Design. This comes after months and months of back and forth between the groups. Ironically all the fuss has been about the exterior of the new library, and officials say it's the inside that really counts. Up next: the permitting process. Officials hope to start construction in 2010.
June 2, 2009
State Police Fire Marshals are asking for your help in solving a double fatal fire. Last month, a blaze on Hudsondale Street in Weatherly left two women dead. Police are still investigating that blaze. They're asking for anyone with pictures of the fire scene to please contact the Hazleton Barracks at 570-459-3890.
June 2, 2009
The Memorial Day drowning at an abandoned quarry has left one community grieving the loss of a young life. 19 year old Dwayne Sommers of Whitehall died after diving into frigid quarry water in Washington Township. Northern Lehigh School District officials are concerned that as summer arrives, more teens will fall victim to deadly dives. Today, students got a harsh dose of reality about what lies beneath abandoned quarries. Inspectors from the Mine Health & Safety Administration hope a little bit of fear will keep students away from quarries this summer.
June 1, 2009
Troubled auto giant General Motors filed for bankruptcy in a New York City court Monday Morning. The announcement was soon followed by a speech by President Obama, who says the government will give $30 Billion in taxpayers dollars toward GM. Local dealerships say despite the grim news, it's business as usual. General Motors announced they will also cease production on Saturns, Saabs, Pontiacs, and Hummers...
June 1, 2009
Thomas Senavitis is back in the Monroe County prison. The Kunkletown man violated the terms of his bail when he showed up drunk at a hearing for his wife in Carbon County last month. He is awaiting trail on homicide by motor vehicle charges for causing the deadly crash that killed State Senator Jim Rhoades last October. His blood-alcohol level at that time was over .300. Senavitis has a hearing in June
June 1, 2009
A West Penn Township man is hurt in a one car crash last night. Police say alcohol may have played a role. It happened just after seven on Route 443 in the township. Police say 30-year-old Paul Moyer lost control on a curve in the roadway. He drove through the guiderail and down a bank rolling his truck. Moyer's pick-up ended up on its wheels. He was treated at the scene and flown to Reading Hospital. Police say DUI charges are pending. West Penn Township Police are handling the incident.
June 1, 2009
Three seperate accidents on Route 443 this morning cause a traffic nightmare. All three happened within 15 minutes of each other, just after 11. Lehighton police say the first accident happened in front of Feders Car Wash. It involved a pick-up truck, a car and a mini van. The chain reaction crash sent the driver of the car, Margaret Arnold of Lansford, to Gnaden Huetten Hospital with minor injures. The second crash was a minor hit and run. News-13 has learned that driver was found. The third accident happened just down the road when a tractor trailer rear-ended a work van. The driver of the van, Richard Reimert of Lenhartsville, was taken to Gnaden Huetten Hospital with back pain. All three accidents happened in construction zones. Traffic was backed up for miles.
May 29, 2009
It's sat idle for five years, but Lehighton's pool is now open to the public. Workers were out Friday afternoon putting the finishing touches on the one million dollar upgraded facility. Three new slides, changing rooms, and a childrens play area are all part of the brand new oasis. Admission is just $7 for adults and $5 for children...
May 29, 2009
A Bowmanstown woman is charged for allegedly stealing over $7,000 from Lehigh University. According
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