HEMPFIELD TOWNSHIP / WESTMORELAND COUNTY, PA — Pennsylvania State Police troopers from the New Stanton barracks, alongside the Westmoreland County Coroner’s Office, are investigating a single-vehicle fiery crash that claimed the lives of 23-year-old Ashton Steedle of Rostraver Township and 20-year-old Brody Kimmel of West Newton on Wednesday afternoon, November 4, 2026.
The fatal crash occurred near the Route 136 overpass at the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76) in Hempfield Township, leaving families, friends, and local Westmoreland County communities in deep mourning.
Authorities have identified the two young men following the fatal accident along Route 136. According to reports, the van they were traveling in left the roadway, descended a hillside, and struck a bridge abutment before catching fire.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene and found both Ashton and Brody deceased inside the vehicle.
Their deaths at such young ages have left family members, friends, and loved ones facing an unimaginable loss. At 23 and 20, both had many years ahead of them, along with opportunities, experiences, and memories that will now remain unfulfilled.
Behind every tragic headline are people whose lives matter and loved ones whose world is changed forever. Ashton and Brody will be remembered by those who knew them and shared meaningful moments with them.
As the investigation into the crash continues, further details about the circumstances surrounding the accident may be released by authorities.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families, friends, and everyone grieving the loss of Ashton Steedle and Brody Kimmel.
May they both rest in peace, and may their memories live on in the hearts of those who loved them.
