Three people, including two Pennsylvania state troopers, have tragically lost their lives in an accident on I-95 in Philadelphia on early Monday.
Pennsylvania police have identified the deceased troopers as 33-year-old Martin F. Mark III and 29-year-old Branden T. Sisca. The third victim, who is a civilian, has not yet been identified publicly pending notification of relatives.
According to Pa police, troopers Mark and Sisca were assigned to help a man who had been walking on On I-95 southbound near the stadium area. The troopers approached the man as he was walking on the left side of the I-95. As the troopers apprehended the man and were walking him back to their patrol car, a woman driving an SUV on a high level of speed struck all three men and their vehicle.
Authorities said the troopers were sent into the northbound lanes of I-95 as a result of the accident’s impact. After crushing the three men to death, the striking car eventually stopped by the right shoulder, and the driver remained on the scene until first responders arrived.
Backup was sent to the scene after troopers Mark and Sisca did not respond on their radios. Upon arrival, officers saw witnesses attempting to rescue the three men. The three victims were declared dead at the scene.
Both the troopers’ vehicle and the striking vehicle were badly damaged. Law enforcement officials said during a press conference that they are conducting an active DUI-related investigation.
In a Monday morning tweet, Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf reacted to the crash.
“Frances and I are deeply saddened by the loss of these two troopers and the individual they were assisting. We’re praying for their loved ones. This tragedy is a reminder that our law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to protect us and our communities,” Wolf wrote.
Authorities said Mark joined the department in 2014 while Sisca was a recent graduate of the Academy.
“Our department is heartbroken with the tragedy that occurred early this morning in Philadelphia,” said Colonel Robert Evanchick. “We ask our fellow Pennsylvanians to keep the families of our troopers and the pedestrian in their thoughts. This is an extremely difficult time.”
Both Mark and Sisca had donated organs to the Gift of Life Program, according to Pennsylvania State Troopers Association.