Zachary Long Annville PA Death and Obituary – A devastating two-vehicle collision in North Annville Township on Saturday evening, May 3, 2025, resulted in the deaths of two young men, sending shockwaves through the local community. The incident occurred at approximately 7:00 p.m. at the intersection of Syner and Palmyra Bellegrove Roads and involved a motorcycle and a mid-size SUV. Both drivers—28-year-old Luis Enrique Ortiz of South Annville Township and 26-year-old Zachary Long of North Annville Township—were pronounced dead at the scene.
According to Cleona Borough Police Chief Jeffrey Farneski, officers responded promptly to 911 calls reporting the crash. Emergency personnel arriving on-site discovered the motorcycle and SUV severely damaged, with no signs of life from either driver. The Lebanon County Coroner’s Office later confirmed their identities. Ortiz was operating the motorcycle, while Long was driving the SUV.
Miraculously, a young child, the only passenger in Long’s vehicle, survived the crash. Chief Farneski reported that the child managed to crawl out of the wreckage and was found on the roadway by first responders. The child was transported to Penn State Hershey Medical Center for precautionary treatment and has since been released and reunited with his mother.
The loss of Ortiz and Long has left a profound impact on the North and South Annville communities. Both men were well-regarded residents, and tributes have poured in via social media from family, friends, and neighbors. Ortiz, remembered for his passion for motorcycles and generosity, was an avid outdoorsman and beloved friend. Long, described as a dedicated father and respected community member, is mourned for his warm nature and strong bond with his child.
“This is a heartbreaking incident,” Chief Farneski said in a public statement. “The loss of two young lives in such a sudden and tragic way is something that touches the entire community. Our thoughts are especially with the child and the families affected.”
The crash scene was closed for about four hours Saturday evening as police conducted a thorough investigation, with assistance from the North Annville and Annville-Cleona Fire Departments. Investigators are continuing to examine contributing factors, including speed, road and weather conditions, visibility at the rural intersection, and potential mechanical failures.
Cleona Borough Police, who provide contracted law enforcement services to North Annville Township, are urging any witnesses or individuals with dashcam footage to come forward to aid the ongoing investigation. Chief Farneski emphasized the department’s commitment to uncovering the exact circumstances of the crash.
In the aftermath, community members have organized meal trains and memorial fundraisers to support the grieving families, particularly in light of the child’s survival. Many have expressed their sorrow and solidarity online, calling for continued prayers and support.
“This is a devastating time,” one community member shared. “Please keep these families in your thoughts, especially the little one who endured something no child ever should.”
As the investigation progresses, authorities continue to remind drivers of the importance of road safety, particularly at rural intersections.
