Harrisburg Mourns Dashon M. Banks, 33, Killed in Tragic I-81 Work Zone Crash
Harrisburg, Pa. — July 15, 2025 — The Harrisburg community and Dashon M. Banks’s family are mourning the loss of a 33-year-old father of four, who tragically died after his car collided with a tractor-trailer on Interstate 81 late Monday evening.
📍 What Happened
-
The crash occurred around 10:58 p.m. on July 14, northbound on I‑81 near mile marker 68.5, within a work zone in Susquehanna Township. Traffic was halted due to construction and police presence, with marked vehicles and flashing lights guiding drivers
-
Banks was driving a 2014 Ford Fusion and failed to slow down, crashing into the rear of a stopped Navistar 940 tractor-trailer in the queue. The Fusion became lodged beneath the trailer.
🕯️ Immediate Aftermath and Victim Details
-
First responders pronounced Banks dead at approximately 12:37 a.m. on July 15, and he was found trapped in the driver’s seat He was the sole occupant of the vehicle. No one on the tractor-trailer was injured
-
Police noted he was not wearing a seat belt at the time
🔍 Investigative Findings
-
Toxicology reports are pending, with preliminary indicators suggesting Banks may have been under the influence of cannabis
-
The crash remains under active investigation by Pennsylvania State Police, and the PennDOT-managed work zone setup, including signage and lighting, is also being reviewed
👨👧👦 The Man and Community Response
-
Dashon M. Banks leaves behind four children—two sons and two daughters—according to social media profiles **
-
Friends, family, and residents of Harrisburg are deeply saddened, describing him as a devoted father and valued member of the community.
-
Local authorities have released minimal personal information thus far, but have encouraged anyone with further biographical details or who wishes to share stories to contact Pennsylvania State Police.
⚠️ Safety Questions Raised
-
The crash highlights the dangers of reduced-speed zones and traffic backups near freeway construction sites, especially under reduced visibility at night.
-
Public safety experts and officials are revisiting whether additional warning signs, lighting, or variable-message alerts might be necessary to prevent future tragedies.
🔮 What Comes Next
-
Officials expect a clearer picture once the toxicology results are finalized and the work zone’s compliance with safety standards is determined.
-
Banks’s family has yet to announce following services; community offers of support and donations are reportedly being coordinated.
🧩 Summary
A beloved father of four, Dashon M. Banks, died after his vehicle struck a tractor-trailer in a work-zone-related traffic backup on I‑81 late on July 14. With no passengers involved and possible cannabis influence under review, this incident is a sobering reminder of the hazards posed by nighttime traffic slowdowns and the importance of strict safety measures. As investigations proceed, the Harrisburg community stands together to remember Banks and support his grieving family.