By Crash News Writer 
East Cocalico Township, PA (September 18, 2026) – Two drivers were injured after a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 76 in Lancaster County on September 17. The incident occurred at approximately 9:27 a.m. in the eastbound lanes, east of the Reading Interchange.
According to the Pennsylvania State Police , 24-year-old Andrew Riehl of Ephrata was reportedly running west in the eastbound lanes when a motorist stopped abruptly to avoid striking him. Police said a second vehicle then struck the first vehicle from behind.
One driver suffered a broken leg, while the other sustained a broken finger. Both drivers were hurt in the accident. Police said Riehl ran into a wooded area following the crash. Troopers and municipal police officers later located him hiding in a marsh between the Pennsylvania Turnpike and the Mt. Zion Baptist Church Fellowship Hall.
Investigators reported that Riehl appeared to be under the influence of narcotics and could not remember how he reached the area. He was transported to WellSpan Ephrata Community Hospital for evaluation. Police said charges of recklessly endangering another person and public drunkenness were filed.
The incident caused substantial delays and temporarily closed the eastbound lanes of Interstate 76 while emergency crews handled the crash and authorities searched the surrounding area. The lanes were later reopened.
Protect Your Rights After an Accident Today
People injured in an unexpected crash may face medical expenses, missed work, rehabilitation, vehicle damage, and insurance issues. Acting promptly can help preserve evidence and protect the ability to pursue available compensation. Understanding car accident laws in Pennsylvania can provide useful information about legal requirements and potential options after an accident.
Anyone searching for a car accident near me or a car accident near East Cocalico Township should consider keeping medical records, photographs, insurance correspondence, witness information, and receipts for accident-related expenses. Obtaining a car accident report can also provide important documentation about the incident.
Insurance companies may request statements or offer settlements while an injured person is still receiving treatment. Before making decisions that could affect a claim, it may be helpful to understand the full extent of injuries and financial losses. Those searching for a car accident near me or a car accident near East Cocalico Township can also seek legal guidance regarding deadlines, insurance coverage, and other issues that may affect their case. A car accident report may assist an attorney in reviewing the circumstances surrounding the crash.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This article is based on preliminary information reported by authorities, and details may be updated as the investigation develops. Readers seeking general information about what may happen following an injury crash can review frequently asked questions in Pennsylvania .
The available report identifies Andrew Riehl as the person police accused of entering the eastbound lanes. The injured drivers were not identified by name in the information provided. Additional information concerning the investigation or charges may be released by authorities as it becomes available.
Those looking for information about assistance following a collision can review accident resources in Pennsylvania . Road closures and current travel conditions should be confirmed through local authorities or appropriate traffic monitoring services.
The content of this news story is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. All information is based on public reports available at the time of publication, and details may change as investigations progress. Readers are encouraged to seek legal counsel if they or someone they know has been involved in a similar incident. The publisher assumes no liability for actions taken or not taken based on the information provided in this article. Learn more with our disclaimer.
If you were injured in a crash, consider calling an attorney as soon as possible. A Pennsylvania personal injury lawyer can review the circumstances and explain potential legal options.