A tragic five-vehicle collision occurred on the Fort Duquesne Bridge in Pittsburgh on the afternoon of Wednesday, May 6, 2026, resulting in the deaths of two people.
Details of the Incident
Time and Location: The crash happened at approximately 3:00 p.m. at the split of Route 65 and Route 28 on the North Shore.
The Plunge: During the multi-vehicle pileup, one SUV careened off the bridge ramp and plunged onto Reedsdale Street below.
The Victims:
Michael Smith (52, of Sheraden): The driver and sole occupant of the SUV that fell off the bridge. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Danielle Jackman (58, of Churchill): An occupant in one of the vehicles that remained on the bridge deck. She was heavily trapped and had to be extricated using the “Jaws of Life.” She was rushed to UPMC Mercy in critical condition but passed away shortly after 4:00 p.m.
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Current Status of the Investigation
Other Occupants: Approximately 12 other people were involved in the crash across the remaining four vehicles. Paramedics evaluated them at the scene, and all refused transport to the hospital.
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Cause of Crash: Pittsburgh Police Chief Jason Lando stated that the investigation is in its early stages, but high speed likely played a significant role in providing enough force to flip a vehicle over the bridge deck.
Traffic Impact: Southbound Route 65 was closed for nearly four hours during the evening rush while the Collision Investigation Unit processed the scene. The roadway reopened just before 7:00 p.m.
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Authorities have noted that an accident involving two different levels (the bridge deck and the street below) is “exceedingly rare.” Local officials are urging drivers to slow down in the area, noting that the interchange is a frequent site for speeding.
