Pittsburgh, PA – Woman Killed After Vehicle Catches Fire on Pkwy E

Pittsburgh, PA (November 24, 2025) – A woman died on November 24 after her vehicle caught fire following a two-vehicle crash along the Parkway East. The collision happened around 5:30 a.m. near mile marker 73 on I-376, close to the Hot Metal Bridge between the Oakland exit and the Squirrel Hill Tunnel.

Pennsylvania State Police and local first responders reached the scene and found two damaged vehicles blocking the highway. Aerial footage from the KDKA Drone Team showed heavy smoke coming from one of the vehicles. Troopers soon confirmed that an Infiniti sedan became disabled on the roadway before the crash. The driver remained inside the car and activated her hazard lights while requesting a tow truck.

A Ford F-150 traveling eastbound struck the stopped sedan. The impact caused the Infiniti to burst into flames. Witnesses said the pickup changed lanes moments before the collision. Trooper Rocco Gagliardi noted that early witness statements indicated a “complete transition from one lane to another,” which likely limited visibility.

The driver of the F-150 immediately tried to help the woman as the car burned. Two Pittsburgh police detectives who were passing through also joined the rescue attempt. However, the flames grew too intense, and they could not reach her. Medical staff pronounced the woman, identified as 40-year-old Keturah Griffin, dead at the scene. The pickup driver suffered minor injuries and received medical treatment.

We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Keturah Griffin.

Car Accidents in Pennsylvania

Serious highway crashes happen often in Pennsylvania, especially on high-speed routes like the Parkway East. Disabled vehicles face significant danger because approaching drivers may not see them in time. Even flashing hazard lights may not prevent a collision when visibility is low or when traffic moves quickly.

Many secondary crashes occur when drivers fail to notice stopped vehicles. A moment of distraction or a sudden lane change can lead to severe or fatal consequences. Impacts involving high-speed traffic often cause fires, rollovers, and major structural damage. These crashes leave families facing sudden loss and overwhelming emotional strain.

Additionally, weather conditions often play a significant role in Pennsylvania crashes. Rain, fog, and snow can reduce visibility and make it harder for drivers to stop in time. Roadway design and heavy commuter traffic can also increase the likelihood of crashes. When traffic flows at inconsistent speeds, drivers may react unpredictably, creating sudden hazards.

Disabled vehicles become even more vulnerable during these conditions, as approaching drivers may struggle to recognize dangers ahead. Because of these risks, proper investigations remain essential to determine fault and understand how the crash occurred.

After fatal accidents, families often struggle with medical bills, funeral expenses, and lost financial support. A wrongful death claim may help surviving relatives recover compensation. These claims can support the family’s long-term needs and provide stability during a difficult time.

An experienced wrongful death attorney from Edelstein Martin & Nelson can investigate the crash, gather evidence, speak with witnesses, and work with accident reconstruction experts. Legal guidance also helps families handle insurance challenges and ensures their rights remain protected.

If you lost a loved one in a Pennsylvania crash, help is available. Call Edelstein Martin & Nelson at 888-630-4409 to speak with our compassionate wrongful death lawyer today.