With heavy hearts, we share the tragic loss of Joseph G. Benz, 61, of Pittsburgh, who was killed in a devastating two-vehicle crash on Route 66 Thursday morning in Jenks Township.

According to the Pennsylvania State Police in Marienville, the crash occurred around 7:09 a.m. on October 30. Investigators reported that Benz was driving southbound in a 2025 Nissan Versa when his vehicle crossed the yellow center line in a passing zone and collided head-on with a northbound 2024 International Harvester box truck driven by Thomas R. Johnson, 61, of Masury, Ohio.

Authorities confirmed that Johnson was not injured, and both drivers had been wearing seat belts. Sadly, Joseph Benz was pronounced dead at the scene by the Forest County Coroner’s Office, which stated that he had to be extricated from the wreckage using mechanical tools.

Following the impact, Benz’s vehicle spun and came to rest on the southbound roadside, while the truck stopped in the southbound lane. The crash forced the closure of Route 66 for several hours as emergency responders worked at the scene.

Multiple agencies, including the Marienville Volunteer Fire Department, Farmington Volunteer Fire Department, Clarion County EMS, the Forest County Coroner, and PennDOT, assisted in the response.

Family, friends, and the Pittsburgh community are mourning the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Joseph Benz — a man remembered for his warmth, integrity, and kind heart. His passing leaves an emptiness in the hearts of those who loved him deeply. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his loved ones find comfort in the cherished memories he leaves behind.