Charleston, West Virginia — May 12, 2025 — Early Sunday morning, May 11, a devastating single-vehicle crash occurred on Interstate 77 in Charleston, West Virginia, resulting in the tragic deaths of two local women. The victims have been identified as 29-year-old Tiara Pitts and 30-year-old Katelyn Berger, both residents of Charleston. The accident, which took place just after 4:30 a.m. near the 64/77 split, has shocked the local community and sparked ongoing investigations into the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident.

According to the Charleston Police Department, Tiara Pitts was driving the vehicle at the time of the crash, and Katelyn Berger was one of the passengers. Both women were tragically pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of their injuries. The crash occurred when the vehicle lost control, veered off the interstate, and struck a cement barrier before plunging off the elevated roadway and landing on Pennsylvania Avenue below.

The Incident: A Devastating Scene on Interstate 77

At the time of the crash, authorities were alerted by a 911 call reporting a vehicle that had gone off the road. When emergency responders arrived, they were met with a horrific scene. The vehicle had careened off the road and crashed onto Pennsylvania Avenue below, causing significant damage. Emergency crews confirmed that Tiara Pitts and Katelyn Berger had died at the scene from the injuries sustained during the incident.

Two other individuals who were passengers in the vehicle survived the crash but sustained injuries. They were quickly transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. However, details about their current conditions and identities have not been released to the public, as the investigation into the crash continues. The authorities have not provided any specific information about the survivors’ injuries, but they remain hospitalized and are expected to recover.

Investigating the Cause: What Led to the Loss of Control?

In the wake of the crash, the Charleston Police Department’s Crash Investigation Unit immediately began investigating the incident. Officers closed the affected section of I-77 to collect evidence, take measurements, and reconstruct the scene in order to understand what caused the vehicle to leave the road. Investigators are reviewing several potential contributing factors, including speed, weather conditions, mechanical failure, and the possibility of driver impairment.

While the initial investigation suggests that the vehicle struck a cement barrier before leaving the roadway, no definitive cause has been determined yet. Weather conditions, which could have contributed to the driver losing control of the vehicle, have not been ruled out, although no signs of impaired driving have been reported at this time.

Local residents who are familiar with the area have commented on the section of I-77 where the crash occurred. The stretch of highway near the 64/77 split is known for its curves and intersections, which can be difficult to navigate, especially at night or in low visibility conditions. While there have been no reports of frequent accidents in that specific location, the road’s design has prompted some local officials to raise concerns about its safety.

As the investigation continues, the Charleston Police Department is asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has additional information to come forward. Eyewitness accounts and any available surveillance footage could help clarify the sequence of events that led to the crash and provide critical details for the investigation.

The Loss of Tiara Pitts and Katelyn Berger: Remembering the Victims

Tiara Pitts and Katelyn Berger were both well-known and loved members of the Charleston community. Friends, family, and colleagues have expressed an outpouring of grief since hearing the news of their untimely deaths. Pitts and Berger were described as vibrant, compassionate, and dedicated individuals who were always willing to lend a helping hand. The tragedy has left their families and the local community heartbroken.

Tiara Pitts, a longtime resident of Charleston, was known for her commitment to community service and her passion for making a positive impact on the lives of others. Those who knew her described her as a caring person who always put others first. Katelyn Berger, likewise, had an active presence in the community and was admired for her warmth and generosity. Friends have expressed their disbelief at the loss of both women, who were taken far too soon.

The news of their deaths has sent shockwaves through Charleston, prompting many to come together to mourn and support the families affected. Local organizations have already begun planning fundraisers and memorial events to help cover funeral expenses and provide support for the victims’ families during this difficult time. The tragic incident has left the community grappling with the sudden loss of two beloved residents.

A Wake-Up Call for Road Safety: The Impact on Older Drivers

The fatal crash involving Pitts and Berger has prompted renewed discussions about road safety, particularly in the context of driving at night or during low-visibility conditions. In the early hours of the morning, when visibility is low and drivers may be fatigued, accidents are more likely to occur. This crash has highlighted the need for increased vigilance when driving in such conditions.

Officials have renewed their calls for drivers to exercise extra caution, especially during early morning or late-night hours, when fatigue can impair reaction times. They also emphasized the importance of using seat belts and maintaining vehicle safety to reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accident.

The Role of the Community in Preventing Accidents

In addition to the investigation, the community has been vocal about the importance of driver awareness and education. Local traffic safety advocates have used the tragedy to raise awareness about the importance of adhering to road safety regulations and promoting safe driving habits, particularly for young adults and those who may drive in challenging conditions.

One key area of concern is distractions while driving. Advocates stress that drivers should avoid texting, using mobile phones, or engaging in other distractions while behind the wheel. By focusing on the road, drivers can significantly reduce their chances of being involved in an accident.

Additionally, local officials have called for improvements in infrastructure to ensure that roads are safe for all users. The section of I-77 where the crash occurred has prompted some to question whether the highway needs better signage, improved lighting, or additional safety measures to make the roadway safer for drivers at night.

The Psychological Impact on the Survivors and Community

Beyond the physical injuries sustained by the two survivors, the emotional and psychological toll of the crash cannot be underestimated. Survivors of such traumatic events often experience a range of emotional reactions, including shock, grief, and survivor’s guilt. It is crucial that the survivors of this crash receive the necessary mental health support to help them process the traumatic event.

Similarly, the emotional impact on the families and friends of Tiara Pitts and Katelyn Berger is profound. Loss, especially in such sudden and tragic circumstances, can leave lasting emotional scars. The support of family, friends, and counselors will be critical for those affected as they navigate the difficult journey of grief and healing.

Investigating the Role of Infrastructure: Improving Road Safety

In light of the crash, some members of the community have raised concerns about the stretch of I-77 where the incident occurred. While no specific cause for the crash has been determined, it has reignited conversations about the safety of certain roadways, especially those with challenging curves or intersections.

Some residents have pointed out that the area around the 64/77 split can be particularly difficult to navigate for drivers who are unfamiliar with the area or are driving in low-visibility conditions. Local officials have expressed an interest in reviewing the design of the highway and considering possible improvements to increase driver safety. These could include better lighting, clearer road markings, and enhanced signage to alert drivers to the upcoming curves or changes in the road.

The Investigation Continues: Seeking Answers

The Charleston Police Department continues to investigate the tragic crash. Although early reports suggest the accident was caused by the driver losing control of the vehicle, investigators have not yet determined the exact cause. As part of their ongoing efforts, authorities are reviewing the crash scene, collecting evidence, and consulting with experts to reconstruct the incident.

In the coming weeks, the department expects to provide more information regarding the investigation and any findings that may emerge. Once a full investigation is completed, a final report will be made available to the public.

Conclusion: A Call for Reflection and Action

The deaths of Tiara Pitts and Katelyn Berger serve as a painful reminder of how fragile life can be. Their passing has left the Charleston community reeling, and their loss has prompted critical discussions about road safety, driver awareness, and the need for continued efforts to prevent tragic accidents.

As the investigation into the crash continues, local officials are hopeful that lessons can be learned from this tragedy, and that steps will be taken to improve the safety of the roads in Charleston and beyond. For the families and friends of the victims, and for the survivors of this crash, the road to healing will be long. In the face of this heartbreaking loss, the community must come together to support those who have been affected and work toward a safer future for everyone on the road.