PACKER TOWNSHIP -- Two people were killed and two others injured after an SUV crash in Carbon County. All four were friends, out for an early morning ride Sunday near Nesquehoning.
State police say Richard Matsick, 47, was at the wheel when the crash happened on a back dirt road in Packer Township.
Troopers said Matsick, traveling at a high rate of speed, lost control and crashed into a tree. Passenger Julie Williams was seriously hurt, while Rebecca Pilla and Richard Zabroski were killed.
Zabroski's uncle, Victor Gogal said his nephew was deeply involved in the community.
"We're in shock. It's tough. We're a big family and we have to step up to the plate, there are four small children."
Mary Ann Stolelmyer lives next to the driver. She said she was shocked by the news.
"I just broke down and cried. I can't explain it, just a terrible feeling that you have for the ones you loved and cared about."
Bob Bodnar lives near victim Julie Williams. Bodnar said he also knows where the crash happened.
"There are quite a bit of potholes in there and some of them are pretty deep, in fact you could get a four-wheeler struck in them and if he was going any length of speed in them he probably lost control of the vehicle."
The state trooper investigating the crash says it's believed that alcohol is involved and that their investigation is continuing.