Butler Township, PA (February 20, 2026) – A two-vehicle collision at a busy Butler County intersection claimed the life of a local woman on Wednesday afternoon, 18th Feb, 2026. The Butler County Coroner’s Office has identified the victim as 67-year-old Deborah Ann Myers of Butler.
According to Butler Township Police, the accident occurred at approximately 1:50 p.m. at the intersection of Route 8 (Pittsburgh Road) and Decatur Drive. Investigators report that Myers was traveling westbound on Decatur Drive when she pulled into the intersection and was struck by a vehicle traveling northbound on Route 8. The northbound car was operated by 36-year-old Chanta Pflugh of Karns City.
Emergency responders arrived to find Myers in traumatic arrest. Despite life-saving efforts, an autopsy performed by the Coroner’s Office determined that she died from blunt force trauma sustained in the crash. Pflugh’s condition was not immediately detailed by authorities, though they confirmed the investigation into the exact cause of the collision remains active. Route 8 was closed between Litman Road and McCalmont/Vogel Road for over two hours as the Crash Reconstruction Unit processed the scene.
Intersection Car Accident in Pennsylvania
Intersection accidents often hinge on the concept of “failure to yield” and the timing of traffic signals or stop signs. In Pennsylvania, drivers entering a main thoroughfare from a side road like Decatur Drive have a heightened duty of care to ensure the roadway is clear of oncoming traffic. Under the state’s modified comparative negligence system, an injured party or their estate can pursue a legal claim for damages as long as they are found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident. This makes the initial police report and accident reconstruction critical, as even a small shift in the percentage of fault can significantly impact the ability to recover compensation for funeral costs, medical bills, and loss of companionship.
Following a fatal collision, a Pennsylvania intersection car crash attorney serves as a dedicated advocate for the grieving family by conducting an independent investigation. This often involves securing dashcam footage, interviewing witnesses who may have seen the signal changes, and analyzing the “black box” data from both vehicles to determine the speed and braking patterns leading up to the impact. Legal teams also navigate the complexities of Pennsylvania’s Limited vs. Full Tort insurance choices, ensuring that the family’s rights are protected regardless of the specific policy language. This professional oversight is essential to ensuring that insurance companies do not prematurely close a case before all contributing factors—including potential road design flaws or vehicle malfunctions—are fully explored.
Pennsylvania law maintains strict deadlines for those seeking justice after a tragedy. While the general statute of limitations for a wrongful death claim is two years from the date of the passing, the window to preserve physical evidence and secure electronic records is much smaller. Furthermore, if the intersection is found to have had a history of safety complaints or inadequate signage, a formal “Notice of Claim” against a municipal or state entity may be required within just six months. Taking prompt action is a necessary step to secure the answers a family deserves and to ensure they have the financial support needed for the future.
If you have questions about your legal rights after an intersection accident or a fatal collision in Butler County, contact Stanley Law Office at 888-997-3889 for a free, private consultation. We are here to help you find the answers and support your family deserves.
