Williamsport, PA – A devastating single-vehicle accident claimed the life of 22-year-old Jake William Wallace and left 23-year-old Alexia Locricchio injured in the early hours of Wednesday, January 24, 2025, on Route 87 in Plunketts Creek Township, Lycoming County.
According to the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) Montoursville unit, Wallace was driving a 2008 BMW 535xi southbound around 1 a.m. when, for reasons still under investigation, the vehicle veered off the road in the 9400 block of Route 87 and collided with a tree. The impact was so severe that the vehicle was thrown back into the middle of the roadway.
Wallace, who was the driver, was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency medical personnel due to the severity of his injuries. His family has been notified of the heartbreaking loss. The passenger, Locricchio, sustained injuries and was initially taken to UPMC Williamsport before being transferred to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville for further treatment. Her current condition remains undisclosed.
The Accident: Details Unfold
PSP Trooper Kyle, who is leading the investigation, stated that the crash occurred on a stretch of road notorious for sharp turns and poor visibility at night. The investigation will focus on determining whether speed, road conditions, or other factors contributed to the accident.
Trooper Kyle added:
“This tragic incident is a reminder of the dangers that can arise, especially on rural roads at night. Our thoughts are with the families of those involved.”
Jake William Wallace: A Life Tragically Cut Short
Jake Wallace, a Williamsport native, was described by friends and family as a kind, ambitious, and hard-working individual with a bright future. A recent graduate of Lycoming College, Wallace had just started working at a local tech firm and was pursuing his passion for software engineering.
Sarah Wallace, Jake’s mother, shared her grief in a heartfelt statement:
“Jake was our pride and joy. He was the kind of person who lit up every room he entered, always ready to help others and make people laugh. We are heartbroken beyond words.”
Wallace was also a sports enthusiast, having played basketball throughout high school. His teammates remember him as a dedicated player with a contagious smile and unwavering determination.
Alexia Locricchio: Injured Passenger Fighting for Recovery
Alexia Locricchio, a close friend of Wallace, remains hospitalized following the accident. Locricchio, a nursing student at Pennsylvania College of Technology, is known for her caring nature and dedication to her studies.
Her family has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and is requesting privacy as they focus on Alexia’s recovery.
Community Reaction: Mourning and Support
The tragic news has sent shockwaves through the Williamsport community, where both Wallace and Locricchio are well-known.
Tom Harris, a family friend, shared his sadness:
“This is a terrible loss for everyone who knew Jake. He had such a bright future ahead of him, and our hearts go out to Alexia as she recovers.”
Friends and classmates have taken to social media to share tributes to Wallace, with many describing him as “a loyal friend” and “a genuinely good person.”
Road Safety Concerns Raised
The accident has also sparked discussions about safety on Route 87, particularly in rural areas like Plunketts Creek Township. Residents have called for improvements such as better lighting, clearer signage, and stricter speed enforcement to prevent future tragedies.
John Peters, a local resident, emphasized the dangers of the area:
“That stretch of road is tricky, especially at night. This isn’t the first accident we’ve seen there, and something needs to be done to make it safer.”
Ongoing Investigation: Questions Remain
The Pennsylvania State Police are continuing their investigation into the crash. A reconstruction team is analyzing evidence from the scene, including skid marks, vehicle damage, and road conditions, to piece together the events leading up to the accident.
Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of speed or other external factors contributing to the crash.
Candlelight Vigil Planned to Honor Jake Wallace
A candlelight vigil is being organized to celebrate the life of Jake Wallace and offer prayers for the recovery of Alexia Locricchio. The vigil will take place on Friday, January 26, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in Brandon Park, a location Jake often visited with friends.
The vigil will include speeches from family members, friends, and local leaders, as well as a moment of silence to honor Wallace’s memory.
Community Support and GoFundMe Campaign
Friends and family of Jake Wallace have launched a GoFundMe campaign to assist with funeral expenses. Additionally, a separate campaign has been created to support Alexia’s medical bills and recovery efforts.
Mary Johnson, a close friend of the Wallace family, expressed gratitude for the community’s generosity:
“The support we’ve received means the world to us. It shows just how loved Jake and Alexia are by everyone who knew them.”
Final Thoughts: A Life Remembered, A Community United
The tragic loss of Jake Wallace and the injuries sustained by Alexia Locricchio have left an indelible mark on the Williamsport community. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on supporting the families and ensuring that lessons are learned to prevent future tragedies.
Trooper Kyle concluded:
“Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this tragedy. We are committed to conducting a thorough investigation and ensuring the families receive the answers they need.”
Rest in peace, Jake Wallace. Your memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved you.
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