In a heartbreaking early morning incident, 38-year-old Jay Kountree of Trenton, New Jersey, lost his life following a tragic car accident on Route 1 in Falls Township, Pennsylvania, on Tuesday, October 28, 2025. The accident, which began as a single-vehicle crash, turned fatal when Kountree was struck by another car moments after stepping out of his vehicle in the dark.
What Happened
The incident occurred around 2:25 a.m. near the Route 13 overpass in Falls Township. Kountree had been driving northbound in his black Cadillac sedan when, for reasons still under investigation, he lost control of the vehicle. The car crashed into a concrete lane divider, leaving it disabled in the middle of the highway. Authorities are investigating the initial crash to determine if factors such as speed, alcohol, or road conditions contributed to the incident.
Tragically, after exiting his vehicle, Kountree was struck by a Lexus ES3 sedan driven by a 30-year-old man from Trenton. The collision caused critical injuries to Kountree. Emergency responders from the Falls Township Fire Company and Levittown-Fairless Hills Rescue Squad arrived quickly at the scene and transported Kountree to Capital Health Regional Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead.
Kountree’s passenger, who sustained minor injuries, was also taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. The driver of the Lexus was uninjured and remained at the scene to cooperate with authorities.
Who Was Jay Kountree / Background of the Case
Jay Kountree was known for his bright smile, loyal heart, and compassionate nature. Described by friends and family as someone who could light up a room, Kountree’s dedication to those he loved was evident in everything he did. His sudden passing has left a profound void in the lives of all who knew him.
Friends, family, and community members have shared their shock and heartbreak over his loss. Many have taken to social media to express their condolences, remembering Kountree as a genuine, uplifting presence whose optimism and kindness touched countless lives. His death is not just a loss to his loved ones but also to the wider community, where his positive influence and warm nature were felt by many.
Investigation and Official Statements
The Falls Township Police Traffic Safety Unit, led by Detective Christopher Iacono, is actively investigating both the initial crash and the secondary collision that claimed Kountree’s life. Police are reviewing surveillance and dashcam footage from the area, and are asking any witnesses who may have been traveling along Route 1 near the Route 13 overpass between 2:00 a.m. and 2:30 a.m. to come forward.
Falls Township Police emphasized the importance of understanding the events leading up to the tragedy and have encouraged anyone with information to contact Detective Iacono at 215-949-9104.
Community Reactions
The sudden and devastating loss of Jay Kountree has left both the local community and his loved ones in shock. Tributes and condolences have poured in, with many remembering Kountree for his kindness and the joy he brought to everyone around him. His family, friends, and colleagues are struggling to come to terms with this untimely death, and thoughts and prayers remain with them as they navigate this painful time.
Closing Line
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
