WATERFORD TOWNSHIP, PA — The quiet rural community of Waterford is grieving the heartbreaking and untimely loss of Justin Puckly, a 33-year-old resident whose life was tragically cut short in the early morning hours of July 19, 2025, following a fatal hit-and-run incident on Route 19. As Pennsylvania State Police intensify their investigation, family members, friends, and neighbors are left mourning a life taken far too soon.
According to information released by Pennsylvania State Police, Puckly was reportedly walking southbound along Route 19, just south of the Waterford borough limits, when he was struck by a vehicle that failed to stop and fled the scene. The devastating incident occurred in the 12900 block of Route 19, a relatively dark and lightly trafficked stretch of roadway.
Authorities received a report of the collision at 1:21 a.m., and Erie County Coroner Lyell Cook confirmed that Justin Puckly was pronounced dead at the scene at 2:07 a.m., having sustained multiple blunt-force trauma injuries consistent with being hit by a vehicle.
Ongoing Investigation and Plea for Public Help
The Pennsylvania State Police, based in Lawrence Park Township, are leading the investigation into this fatal hit-and-run. In a statement released shortly after the tragedy, troopers indicated that they are currently reviewing and collecting surveillance footage from homes and businesses in the vicinity in an effort to identify the vehicle involved.
As part of their efforts, investigators are specifically seeking witnesses who may have seen any vehicles traveling through the nearby roundabout north of the accident scene between 12:55 a.m. and 1:10 a.m. on July 19. That short window is considered critical in narrowing down potential suspects and tracing the driver who fled the scene.
Authorities have also urged anyone with doorbell camera footage, dash cam recordings, or other digital evidence from that night to step forward and assist in the investigation.
Those with information are encouraged to contact Pennsylvania State Police in Lawrence Park Township at 814-898-1641. Tips can be provided anonymously.
Remembering Justin Puckly
Described by those who knew him as a kind-hearted and hardworking man, Justin Puckly was deeply rooted in the Waterford community. Friends recall him as someone who never hesitated to help others, who enjoyed nature walks through the rural backroads of Pennsylvania, and who found joy in life’s simplest pleasures.
He was a loving son, a dependable friend, and a quiet soul with a gentle demeanor. A graduate of Fort LeBoeuf High School, Puckly worked various jobs throughout the region, often in the trades, and was known for his strong work ethic and easygoing nature.
“Justin had a way of making people feel comfortable,” said one longtime friend. “He wasn’t loud or flashy, but he was genuine. If you were his friend, you had a friend for life.”
His family has expressed profound grief over his sudden and tragic passing, and they have made a heartfelt plea to the public to come forward with any information that might bring justice to Justin’s memory.
A Community Demands Justice
Hit-and-run incidents like the one that claimed Justin Puckly’s life leave behind not only sorrow but also lingering questions and a longing for accountability. As state troopers continue their methodical investigation, the community of Waterford stands united in calling for justice.
A roadside memorial now marks the location where Puckly’s life was taken—flowers, candles, and handwritten notes left by those who loved him and wish for his story to be heard. A candlelight vigil is being planned by friends and family, to both honor his memory and raise awareness about the importance of road safety and driver responsibility.
Final Words
Justin Puckly’s death is a tragic reminder of how fragile life can be and how devastating the consequences are when drivers choose to flee the scene rather than offer help. His family and community are left with a void that cannot be filled, but they remain hopeful that with the public’s help, answers will soon come to light.
In Loving Memory of Justin Puckly (1992 – 2025)
Gone far too soon. Forever remembered.
If you saw something or know something, please speak up.
Justice for Justin.
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