Crash with Entrapment, Rt 222 SB

 
By PIO Rick Schartel
September 12, 2025
 

On Friday morning September 12, TSFRS Rescue 85, Wyomissing FD Engine 79, and Western Berks EMS Medic 6521 were dispatched for a motor vehicle accident with entrapment on Route 222 south bound in northern Spring Township. Additional information from Communications reported a box truck into the rear of a tractor trailer, with one occupant trapped and injured.

WBEMS Chief 650 arrived and reported the incident to be on 222 between Broadcasting Road and the ramp to Route 222 south bound with reported heavy entrapment. TSFRS Chief 85 arrived on scene and found a private heavy duty tow truck positioned as a traffic block and confirmed heavy entrapment in the box truck. C85 further requested that Western Berks FD Engine E18-2 be dispatched for additional personnel and established Route 222 Command.

R85 and L79 arrived, and crews gathered equipment for the extrication, stretched a 1 3/4” inch hose line, and stabilized the box truck. Members utilized a variety of rescue tools including class cutters, hydraulic tools and reciprocating saws to achieve access to the patient. Once access was gained, EMS was able to initiate primary care. Personnel then assisted with a long board patient extrication and placed the patient onto the litter for additional definitive emergency care. Command confirmed the content of the tractor trailer was perishable food products, with no hazards and intact cargo.

Fire Police from 85, 64 (West Reading), and 66 (Muhlenberg) were summoned to control the enormous impact on traffic flow and maintain a safe workspace. Crews returned their equipment and re-packed the 1 ¾” hose line, after which Command released E18-2 and L79. R85s crew applied oil dry to fluids and swept debris from the roadway. R85 then returned to station for additional clean up and decon.

Due to investigative needs, STPD requested that the roadway remain closed. Accordingly, Command advised Fire Police they were to remain in place until released by PD.