PLEASANT GAP, Pa. — A drug-impaired driver caused a devastating three-vehicle crash in Pleasant Gap that left one woman with permanent injuries, police reported.
The collision, which took place on April 22, involved a known drug user driving under the influence of methamphetamine and marijuana.
What Happened
On April 22, Spring Township Police responded to a three-car crash on the 800 block of South Main Street in Pleasant Gap.
Officers found a Dodge Durango wedged into a Ford Edge, which was pinned against a guardrail. A third vehicle, a pickup truck, was also involved but its driver appeared uninjured.
An elderly woman was trapped in the Ford Edge and had to be rescued. Police identified the Dodge driver as 29-year-old Mick L. Hockenberry of Rebersburg.
Key Details
Hockenberry was traveling northbound when he allegedly crossed into the southbound lane.
He first struck a truck, then ricocheted into the Ford Edge, pinning it against the guardrail.
Skid marks showed the initial collision occurred in the southbound lane.
Witnesses reported the Durango was speeding before the crash.
Reactions or Statements
Police say the victim, who recently had ankle surgery, suffered three new fractures to the same ankle.
The injuries caused “irreversible damage” and severely reduced her ability to function independently.
Officers described her as in visible pain and dependent on a walker and medical boot.
“She made it clear… this injury was going to affect her daily life moving forward,” an officer noted.
Drugs Found in Driver’s System
Police observed that Hockenberry was jittery, with pinpoint pupils.
He admitted to using meth and marijuana earlier that day.
Officers found marijuana wax in an unlabeled container and a meth pipe on him.
Toxicology results confirmed the presence of THC, amphetamine, methamphetamine, and Norbuprenorphine in his blood.
Charges and Legal Action
Hockenberry has two previous DUI convictions, enabling felony DUI charges.
He now faces:
- Three counts of felony DUI
- Aggravated assault by vehicle while DUI
- Careless driving
- Disregard of traffic lanes
- Unsafe speed
He was released on $25,000 unsecured bail.
A preliminary hearing is scheduled for June 4 before Judge Gregory M. Koehle.
FAQs
Who was involved in the Pleasant Gap crash?
Mick L. Hockenberry of Rebersburg and an unnamed elderly woman who suffered serious injuries.
What substances were in the driver’s system?
Methamphetamine, amphetamine, three forms of THC, and Norbuprenorphine.
What injuries did the victim sustain?
Three ankle fractures on a previously surgically repaired joint, causing permanent mobility issues.
Has the driver been charged before?
Yes. He has two prior DUI convictions in the past decade.
When is the next court date?
June 4, 2025, before Judge Gregory M. Koehle.
Summary / Final Takeaway
The April 22 crash in Pleasant Gap, caused by a drug-impaired driver with a history of DUIs, left a woman with permanent injuries and upended her quality of life.
Authorities are pursuing multiple felony DUI charges against Mick L. Hockenberry, whose next court appearance is set for June.
