Harrison Township, PA – Tragic Crash Claims Lives of Teen and Young Man
A devastating accident in Harrison Township on Wednesday night has left two families and their communities in mourning after a 17-year-old girl from Altoona and 21-year-old Jayson Diehl of Manns Choice were killed in a collision involving a go-kart and a pickup truck.
According to the Pennsylvania State Police, the incident occurred on August 6, just before 9 p.m., at the intersection of Allegheny Road and Milligans Cove Road. Initial reports indicate that a Ram truck traveling northbound crossed over the double yellow line into the opposite lane, directly into the path of a Fox Vortex go-kart.
The collision was violent and immediate. The impact caused the go-kart to become lodged underneath the truck, forcing the small vehicle partially under the much larger pickup. The 17-year-old passenger, who has not yet been publicly identified due to her age, was ejected from the go-kart upon impact. Diehl, who was driving the go-kart, became trapped inside the mangled frame.
Authorities say the go-kart eventually came to rest along the shoulder of the southbound lane, while the Ram truck continued forward, veering off the roadway before striking a tree. Despite the severity of the crash, the truck’s driver was reportedly unharmed.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but tragically, both the teenage passenger and Diehl were pronounced dead from their injuries. The Pennsylvania State Police are continuing their investigation into the crash, including the circumstances that led to the truck crossing the center line.
The loss has shaken both Altoona and Manns Choice — two communities now united in grief. Friends and family describe Jayson Diehl as a kind-hearted and adventurous young man, deeply connected to his friends and always willing to lend a hand. The 17-year-old victim is being remembered by those who knew her as vibrant, compassionate, and full of promise, with her life tragically cut short before adulthood.
Authorities have not released further details regarding potential charges or the identity of the truck driver. As investigators work to determine the full sequence of events, loved ones of the victims are left grappling with an unimaginable loss.
This tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of safety on all roads — whether driving a large vehicle or operating smaller recreational equipment like go-karts. Two bright futures were ended in an instant, leaving an ache that will be felt for years to come.
Community members are already rallying to support the victims’ families, with vigils and memorials being discussed in both towns. The investigation remains ongoing.
