Motorcyclist Gavin J. Long, 20, Identified as Victim in Fatal Three-Vehicle Crash on I-78 in Lehigh County

on Sunday morning, August 3, 2025, has been identified as Gavin J. Long, age 20, of Middle Paxton Township, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania.

At approximately 11:15 a.m., emergency crews were dispatched to a serious collision on I‑78 eastbound near mile‑marker 58.9, located in Salisbury Township, Lehigh County. The crash involved three vehicles—a motorcycle, a tractor‑trailer, and another vehicle. Gavin Long, who was riding the motorcycle, was found lying on the roadway and was pronounced dead at the scene

The Lehigh County Coroner’s Office, Pennsylvania State Police at the Fogelsville station, and the Lehigh County District Attorney’s Office are jointly conducting a thorough investigation. Troopers have urged any witnesses to come forward to assist with their ongoing work

🕯️ Victim: Gavin J. Long

Name: Gavin J. Long
Age: 20
Residence: Middle Paxton Township, Dauphin County, PA

🚨 Crash Overview

Date: Sunday, August 3, 2025
Time: Around 11:15 a.m., when the victim was pronounced dead on-site
Location: I‑78 eastbound, mile marker 58.9, Salisbury Township, Lehigh County, Pennsylvania
Vehicles Involved: Motorcycle (operated by Gavin Long), tractor‑trailer, and a third vehicle
Response: Crash investigation is ongoing by state police and local district attorney’s office; witness statements are being sought

🚦 Broader Context & Safety Considerations

Motorcycle collisions on major highways like I‑78 often carry severe consequences due to higher speeds and significant size differences between bikes and large commercial vehicles.
For example, statewide statistics show that motorcyclists are disproportionately affected in crashes, with mortality rates up to 30 times greater than in other types of vehicle accidents
This incident also involved a tractor-trailer, reflecting common risk factors in motorcycle–commercial vehicle crashes—limited visibility in blind spots, early‑morning or mid-day fatigue, and lane-change dynamics.

🛑 Aftermath & Moving Forward

Authorities are currently processing available evidence, including vehicle damage, road conditions, possible driver impairment, and witness testimony.
Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has relevant dash-cam or surveillance footage, especially near mile marker 58.9 on I‑78, is asked to contact Pennsylvania State Police at the Fogelsville station.
State and local officials urge caution and vigilance for drivers and motorcyclists alike, especially on busy interstate corridors where split-second decisions can have fatal outcomes.

💔 In Memoriam

The community of Middle Paxton Township and Dauphin County mourns the loss of Gavin J. Long—a young life lost too soon. Our deepest sympathies go out to Gavin’s family, friends, and all who knew him.gg