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BERWICK — Four people from Nescopeck were hurt by falling debris when a building’s roof collapsed in downtown Berwick on Wednesday afternoon.
One of the victims, a 17-year-old girl, was in critical condition, according to authorities.
Police said Denise Leiby, 53, of Nescopeck, was driving a 2000 Dodge Durango that was stopped at a light at Second and Market streets when part of the roof at the former Masonic Building fell onto the roadway and heavily damaged her vehicle.
Leiby was able to free herself, officers said in a press release. Her passenger, 17-year-old Latia Leiby, was extricated by pedestrians who forced open the passenger-side door, according to Berwick Police Chief Ken Strish.
Both were taken to Geisinger Medical Center by ambulance. The teen suffered serious injuries and was in critical care, Strish reported.
A 2010 Ford Focus behind the Durango was also hit by rubble from the building.
That car was being driven by Jeb Steward, 18, of Nescopeck. He was riding with Grace Finucan, 17, of Nescopeck. Both freed themselves from the Focus, and both were taken to Berwick Hospital Center for further evaluation.
Police said the scene will be closed for several days and traffic will be detoured.
As for what caused the collapse, police said an investigation continues.
