A Tyrone woman escaped the grip of Riggles Gap Run Creek after a Saturday evening accident in Antis Township.
The incident occurred when Brenda Weyandt was traveling south on State Route 4019, before the intersection of Sandbank Road. Weyandt traveled onto the west shoulder area and her vehicle struck a guide rail went through it and then landed in Riggles Gap Run Creek.
According to the state police, the vehicle came to rest on the left passenger side. Weyandt, who was wearing a seat belt, was able to free herself. Police did not indicate if she was injured in the accident, but did say alcohol appeared to be a factor. They were continuing their investigation.
Pinecroft Volunteer Fire Company responded to the incident which occurred around 6 p.m., at the same time the grand parade of the Central Volunteer Fireman’s Association Convention was being held.
State Department Environmental Protection duty officer Arthur Dalla Piazza said county emergency management officials also responded to the scene.
There were environmental concerns about fluids from the vehicle going into the creek.
“Not much was released,” said Dalla Piazza.
He also indicated that with the recent heavy rains, ground water and surface water was running into the stream and there was “little likelihood ground water contamination would occur. He also said he was not sure if there were that many, if any, residential wells in the area. However, if there were, there was only a slim chance of any problems.
Dalla Piazza said the crews on the scene set up barrier equipment to prevent any further problems. He also said the DEP itself did not respond to the scene.
Weyandt’s automobile suffered severe damage.
