By Crash News Writer 
Altoona, PA (December 8, 2025) – A woman was killed Friday afternoon in a serious multi-vehicle crash on Plank Road at the I-99 northbound interchange in Allegheny Township, prompting a large-scale response and road closures.
According to the Pennsylvania State Police, emergency personnel were dispatched around 12:49 p.m. on December 5 to the 2800 block of Plank Road. Authorities reported that a female driver, identified as 84-year-old Barbara Tretinik of Northern Cambria, was traveling south in the northbound lanes when her vehicle collided with oncoming traffic. The impact led to a multi-vehicle crash involving at least two SUVs and a pickup truck. One of the SUV engines was found dislodged and resting on the roadway.
Tragically, Barbara Tretinik died from her injuries. The Blair County Coroner confirmed an autopsy is scheduled. A state police crash reconstruction team is leading the investigation, and a separate crash on Plank Road is also under review. Lanes were closed for hours but reopened shortly after 3 p.m.
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This report is based on early statements from officials and may be updated as more facts are confirmed. The deceased has been identified, and next of kin have been notified.
Investigators continue to examine whether driver error, road conditions, or vehicle malfunctions contributed to the collision. A state police crash reconstruction unit remains involved in the case.
For more guidance on what to do after a tragic accident, see our frequently asked questions in Pennsylvania and explore available accident resources in Pennsylvania to find the support you need.
This article is for informational purposes and is not legal advice. All information is based on public reports at the time of writing and may be subject to updates. For more, read our disclaimer.
If someone you love was killed in a car accident near Altoona, we encourage you to contact a compassionate Pennsylvania personal injury lawyer to explore your legal rights today.