Somerset County Community Mourns Three Lives Lost in Tragic Multi-Vehicle Crash on Route 40 in Henry Clay Township

💔 Somerset County Community Mourns Three Lives Lost in Tragic Multi-Vehicle Crash on Route 40 in Henry Clay Township

SOMERSET COUNTY, Pa. — A deep sense of grief and disbelief has settled over several communities across Pennsylvania, Florida, and West Virginia following a devastating multi-vehicle crash that claimed three lives Monday afternoon along State Route 40 in Henry Clay Township.

Authorities have now confirmed the victims as 66-year-old Delroy Henry of Hollywood, Florida; 31-year-old Nikki Jo Rugg of Markleysburg, Pennsylvania; and 34-year-old Michael Brown of Martinsburg, West Virginia. Each of them leaves behind grieving families, friends, and communities struggling to comprehend the sudden and heartbreaking loss.

According to the Pennsylvania State Police, the deadly collision occurred shortly before 3 p.m. on a stretch of Route 40 near the Pennsylvania–Maryland border. The crash, which involved multiple vehicles, prompted an immediate and large-scale response from emergency personnel, including local fire departments, paramedics, and law enforcement agencies.

Investigators say early findings suggest that one vehicle may have crossed the center line on the slick roadway, setting off a chain-reaction collision involving several cars and a pickup truck. The impact left a trail of twisted metal and debris scattered across both lanes of the highway. Despite the rapid arrival of rescue crews, three individuals were tragically pronounced dead at the scene.

“It was a chaotic and deeply tragic scene,” said one emergency responder. “Despite every effort made to save lives, the crash’s severity was overwhelming.”

State police and accident reconstruction specialists remained on-site for several hours Monday evening, closing Route 40 in both directions as they conducted a detailed investigation. Traffic was rerouted for most of the night while crews worked to clear the wreckage and document the scene.

The loss of Delroy Henry, Nikki Jo Rugg, and Michael Brown has left three families shattered and multiple communities in mourning. Each victim is being remembered for their unique spirit and the lives they touched.

• Delroy Henry, 66, was a longtime resident of Hollywood, Florida, remembered for his warm smile, generosity, and love of travel. Friends describe him as a man who lived life fully and cared deeply for his family and community.

• Nikki Jo Rugg, 31, of Markleysburg, Pennsylvania, was known for her kindness, laughter, and devotion to her family. Loved ones say she had a heart of gold and was always willing to help others.

• Michael Brown, 34, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was remembered as a hardworking man with a love for the outdoors and an unwavering loyalty to those he loved. His family says his loss has left “a hole that will never be filled.”

As the investigation continues, police are working to determine the exact cause of the crash, including whether weather or road conditions played a contributing role. Officials have not yet released information on possible charges or citations, though they have confirmed that the incident remains under active review.

The tragedy has also prompted an outpouring of sympathy from across state lines. Friends, neighbors, and community members have taken to social media to share condolences, memories, and prayers for the victims’ families. Several vigils are being planned in their honor, with locals determined to ensure their lives are remembered not for the tragedy that took them, but for the love and light they brought to others.

“This is a heartbreaking loss,” said a family friend of one of the victims. “Three beautiful lives gone in an instant — we can’t make sense of it. All we can do is hold onto their memories and love one another through the pain.”

The Somerset County Coroner’s Office confirmed that autopsies will be conducted as part of the ongoing investigation. Authorities have urged witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage from the area at the time of the crash to contact the Pennsylvania State Police Uniontown Barracks.

In the wake of the tragedy, community members have gathered to offer support for the grieving families, bringing flowers, candles, and handwritten notes to a growing roadside memorial along Route 40 — a somber tribute to lives lost too soon.

As Somerset County and surrounding communities come to terms with this devastating event, many are left reflecting on the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment with loved ones.

May Delroy Henry, Nikki Jo Rugg, and Michael Brown be remembered for the love, laughter, and warmth they brought into this world — and may their families find comfort and strength in the days ahead. 🕊️💐