Thomas Hipple of Snow Shoe tragically lost his life after being struck by a vehicle while crossing State Route 144 near 730 E. Sycamore Road. The incident occurred at approximately 9:09 a.m. when a 2016 Hyundai Accent, driven by Michael J. Packer of Snow Shoe, collided head-on with Hipple.
According to investigators, the two-lane asphalt road, which is posted at 45 mph and divided by a double yellow line, was the site of the fatal accident. Hipple was pronounced dead at the scene, with his body coming to rest in the grass on the north side of the road, facing west.
The driver, Michael Packer, was unharmed but was cited for driving on roadways laned for traffic — single and for improperly wearing his seatbelt at the time of the crash.
Emergency and investigative assistance was provided by Mount Nittany Health EMS, Snow Shoe Ambulance and Rescue Service, PennDOT, and the Centre County Coroner’s Office as authorities continue to review the circumstances surrounding the accident.