Vandergrift couple injured when SUV drives backwards into wooded area
An elderly Vandergrift couple was flown to a Pittsburgh hospital Monday after their SUV drove backwards off a road and through a wooded area in the borough, according to police.
The incident happened about 12:10 p.m. at Pennsylvania and Maryland avenues.
Vandergrift police Sgt. Anthony DePanicis identified the couple as Louis Pangrazi, 90, and Evelyn Pangrazi, 86.
DePanicis said Louis Pangrazi was backing out of his driveway on Pennsylvania Avenue when he stepped on the gas while the vehicle was still in reverse. The SUV traveled backwards through a grass lot at the Kiski Valley YMCA before it entered a wooded area. It hit multiple trees before coming to a stop. The couple became trapped inside and had to be cut out, the sergeant said.
The Pangrazis were flown to UPMC Presbyterian in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood.
DePanicis did not know the extent of their injuries, but said both were conscious and talking when they were flown to the hospital.
Madasyn Czebiniak is a Tribune-Review staff writer. You can contact Madasyn at 724-226-4702, mczebiniak@tribweb.com or via Twitter @maddyczebstrib.
Madasyn Czebiniak is a Tribune-Review staff writer. You can contact Madasyn at 724-226-4702, mczebiniak@tribweb.com or via Twitter .
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