Additional information regarding a deadly crash on William Penn Highway just west of Chipman Road has been released by Bethlehem Township Police, shedding light on the tragic incident that occurred in the early hours of January 5, 2025. The collision, which left one person dead and another seriously injured, continues to raise concerns regarding impaired driving and the consequences of excessive alcohol consumption behind the wheel.
According to Bethlehem Township Police, a City of Easton police officer was passing through Bethlehem Township on January 5 at around 2 a.m. when he observed a single-vehicle crash on William Penn Highway. The vehicle, a 2006 Nissan Altima, had veered off the road and struck a tree on the north side. The officer, upon arriving at the scene, identified two individuals from Easton who were involved in the crash: Randy Donato, 32, the driver, and Nicole Guzman, 35, the passenger.
The Northampton County Coroner’s Office pronounced Guzman dead at the scene. Her tragic death has left family, friends, and the community mourning the loss of a life that was cut short far too soon. Meanwhile, Donato, the driver, was found to be injured but conscious. He was promptly transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. While the extent of his injuries has not been publicly disclosed, authorities later confirmed that he was receiving care at the hospital at the time of his blood sample being collected.
The investigation into the crash quickly took a critical turn when officials discovered that alcohol may have played a significant role in the incident. According to authorities, while Donato was being treated at the hospital, a Bethlehem Township police officer obtained a sample of his blood for testing, which was later analyzed to determine his blood alcohol content (BAC). The results were staggering: Donato’s BAC was 0.208%, more than 2.5 times the legal limit of 0.08%. This elevated alcohol level points to severe impairment, making it clear that alcohol was likely a major factor in the crash.
Donato, during an interview with police, reportedly admitted to consuming alcohol before the crash. He also acknowledged carrying a flask with him at the time. In addition, authorities found multiple alcohol bottles inside the vehicle during a subsequent search, further confirming the suspicion that alcohol had contributed to the tragic accident. Given Donato’s high BAC level and his admission of alcohol consumption, the crash is now being treated as a DUI-related fatality, with significant legal consequences likely to follow.
The crash scene was a chaotic and somber one, as emergency responders from several agencies rushed to the area to provide assistance. Bethlehem Township Volunteer Fire, Nancy Run Fire, Bethlehem Township EMS, and Easton Police Department all responded to the call. The Northampton County Coroner’s Office was also present, taking part in the grim task of investigating the cause of death and confirming Guzman’s passing. Additionally, the First Responder Chaplain Corps offered emotional and spiritual support to those involved in the response efforts. The multi-agency collaboration underscored the gravity of the situation and the coordinated effort required to handle such an incident.
In the days following the crash, authorities worked diligently to piece together the circumstances leading up to the fatal accident. The discovery of Donato’s high BAC, coupled with his acknowledgment of drinking alcohol, led to the issuance of an arrest order for him. On February 20, 2025, Donato was taken into custody at his home and committed to Northampton County Prison in lieu of bail. Authorities have indicated that Donato will face charges related to DUI, with the possibility of additional charges given the fatal nature of the crash.
The legal proceedings against Donato will likely be closely followed, given the severity of the crash and the tragic loss of life. DUI-related fatalities are a serious matter, and those who are found responsible for causing such incidents face both criminal and civil liabilities. The fact that Donato’s BAC was so far beyond the legal limit adds further weight to the case, as it points to a clear and extreme level of impairment that played a direct role in the crash. The consequences of his actions will have far-reaching effects, not only for himself but for the family and friends of Nicole Guzman, who now have to grapple with the sudden and heartbreaking loss of a loved one.
In the aftermath of this tragic incident, authorities are once again reminding the public about the dangers of impaired driving and the devastating consequences it can have on individuals and families. The Bethlehem Township Police Department, along with other local agencies, has emphasized the importance of responsible alcohol consumption and safe driving practices. The crash on January 5, 2025, is a stark reminder that driving under the influence is never worth the risk. It not only endangers the driver but also puts the lives of innocent people at risk.
As the investigation continues and Donato’s legal proceedings unfold, the community is left to reflect on the tragic consequences of the crash. Nicole Guzman’s death serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of making responsible decisions behind the wheel. Her family and friends are left to cope with the immense grief of losing a loved one, while Donato’s future now rests in the hands of the legal system. The coming months will reveal more details about the case, and the community will undoubtedly continue to process the impact of this senseless tragedy.
Bethlehem Township Police and other law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation are committed to seeing justice served in this case. As the legal proceedings against Donato progress, authorities will continue to work to hold him accountable for the consequences of his actions. For now, the community remains in mourning for Nicole Guzman, whose life was taken far too soon, and the hope is that this incident will serve as a powerful reminder of the dangers of impaired driving and the devastating impact it can have on individuals and families alike.
