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Two from Schuylkill County Die in Lebanon County Wreck

UNION TOWNSHIP, LEBANON COUNTY — Two people from Schuylkill County were killed in a crash in Lebanon County Thursday night. The crash happened around 8:30...

UNION TOWNSHIP, LEBANON COUNTY -- Two people from Schuylkill County were killed in a crash in Lebanon County Thursday night.

The crash happened around 8:30 p.m. on Interstate 81 in Lebanon County, near Hershey.

State police have identified the victims as Haley Wetzel, 19, and her grandmother Julia Williams, 60, both of Pottsville.

Troopers say Wetzel was driving north when a tractor-trailer driver lost control of his rig, crossed the center median from the southbound lanes, and struck her vehicle.

The family, devastated by the loss of two of its members, is still in shock.

"I just wish this was not true. I wish that I had my baby here and my mom. It is going to be very rough on my family and I," said Haley Wetzel's mother Renee Wetzel.

Williams' husband Evan was at home at the time, waiting for the two to come back. He called police when he couldn't reach his wife.

"She said Schuylkill Haven State Police is dispatching a car out to see you and when they told me that I knew my granddaughter and wife were dead," said Williams.

Family members say Julia and Haley were coming back from a doctor's appointment in Hershey.

Haley was diagnosed with lupus at the age of 5. Her grandmother often went with her to appointments.

Julia Williams also had medical problems. She recently found out she had cancer and had a heart condition.

Through those illnesses, the family has a love for dirt track racing.

"Haley is a diehard dirt track racing fan. She loved the sport."

Racing was such a big part of their family, many of the people they've met through the years are hosting a race for them next month so that the proceeds can go toward their funerals.

"I'm going to miss them dearly and I don't know how I'm going to survive without them."

They're hoping their lost loved ones are remembered for their bright spirits.

"I want them to remember Haley and my mom as they were, the happy-go-lucky people that they were."

Troopers say they are still investigating and say it will be awhile before we find out if any charges will be filed.

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