NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY, PA – July 13, 2025 — Amelia Reitz, a 12-year-old girl, has been identified as the victim of a tragic UTV crash that occurred on Saturday evening in Shamokin Township, Northumberland County, Pennsylvania. The accident, which involved a Utility Task Vehicle (UTV), took place on Reitz Road and resulted in the fatal injuries of the young girl.
According to County Coroner James Kelley, Amelia died at the scene from blunt force head trauma sustained when the UTV she was riding in overturned. The incident has left the community mourning the loss of a young life taken too soon.
The Accident: UTV Overturns on Reitz Road
The accident occurred at approximately 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 12, when four juveniles were riding in a UTV on a private gravel driveway off of Reitz Road. According to Pennsylvania State Police, the vehicle was approaching a left-hand curve when the driver’s side tire struck an embankment, causing the operator to lose control of the vehicle.
As the UTV made the turn, it overturned, leading to Amelia Reitz being ejected and suffering fatal injuries. Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after the crash but were unable to revive the young girl. Amelia was pronounced dead at the scene by Coroner Kelley.
The Other Juveniles: Conditions Not Released
While the identities and conditions of the other three juveniles involved in the crash have not been publicly released, authorities have confirmed that all four juveniles were inside the UTV at the time of the accident. The remaining individuals involved in the crash were reportedly not critically injured, although their exact conditions have not been detailed at this time.
Police and investigators have not indicated the severity of the injuries sustained by the other juveniles, nor whether they were all wearing seatbelts or other safety gear. The Pennsylvania State Police have confirmed that the crash remains under active investigation, as authorities work to determine the cause of the accident and whether any additional factors contributed to the incident.
Investigation: Determining the Cause of the UTV Crash
Pennsylvania State Police are continuing their investigation into the crash, with a focus on determining whether speed, road conditions, or operator error played a role in the incident. UTV crashes, particularly those involving juveniles, have raised concerns about safety practices, including the use of safety restraints and driver training.
Officials are also reviewing whether the UTV was being operated in accordance with Pennsylvania’s safety regulations for off-road vehicles. There has been no indication at this time whether alcohol or other substances were involved in the crash.
Community Mourns the Loss of Amelia Reitz
The death of Amelia Reitz has sent shockwaves through the community of Shamokin Township and beyond. Family and friends have expressed their profound grief over the loss of a young girl who was described as a bright and kind individual. Tributes from the local community have poured in, with many sharing their heartfelt condolences for the family.
“She was such a sweet and caring young girl,” said one neighbor who knew the Reitz family. “This is an unimaginable loss for her family and the entire community. We are all heartbroken.”
Amelia is survived by her family, including parents and siblings, who are struggling to cope with the sudden and tragic loss. Funeral arrangements and visitation hours are expected to be released by the family in the coming days.
A Growing Concern: Safety Measures for Juvenile UTV Operation
This tragic incident has brought renewed attention to the safety of juvenile UTV riders, particularly in rural areas where off-road vehicles are common. The National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council (NOHVCC) has long advocated for stronger safety measures to protect riders, especially young children.
“We cannot stress enough the importance of wearing safety gear, following local regulations, and ensuring that youth riders are properly trained before operating UTVs,” said a spokesperson from the NOHVCC.
Safety experts have recommended the implementation of safety courses, restrictions on underage drivers, and the use of helmets and other protective equipment when operating UTVs, especially on rough terrain or private roads.
The Ongoing Investigation: Next Steps and Public Support
As authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, they are asking for any witnesses or individuals with information about the incident to come forward. Investigators are particularly interested in gathering information about the conditions of the roadway, the operation of the UTV, and any potential eyewitness accounts that could shed light on the circumstances leading to the crash.