Pennsylvania soldier dies in crash while heading home for Christmas

A soldier serving in the U.S. Army from Northumberland County, Pennsylvania tragically passed away in a car accident while on his way home for the holidays. Braydyn McIlroy of Sunbury lost his life in a collision in Louisiana on Dec. 20, confirmed by the Louisiana State Police. The incident occurred shortly before 1 a.m. on Interstate 20 in Calhoun, Ouachita Parish. McIlroy, a 22-year-old Pennsylvanian, was driving a Toyota Corolla with its emergency lights activated when a Ford F-150 rear-ended him, resulting in his death at the scene despite wearing a seatbelt. The driver of the Ford was uninjured, and authorities stated that impairment is not believed to have played a role. The crash is currently being investigated. McIlroy, who was heading home to Pennsylvania for Christmas, was described as an active member of the U.S. Army stationed in Texas and had recently achieved the rank of specialist. Known affectionately as "Braydy" by his friends and family, McIlroy is survived by his fiancee, Destiny Sanders, and his mother, Carolyn J. Wright. Remembered as a loved individual with a humorous and unique personality, his absence is mourned by many. A viewing will be held this Saturday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Christ Wesleyan Church in Milton.