Butler County attorney, Save Slippery Rock Creek co-founder killed in Friday crash on Evans City Road
A Butler County attorney and the co-founder of an advocacy organization were the two women killed in the Friday, Oct. 17, head-on collision between two vehicles on Evans City Road in Forward Township.
Kathyrn J. McGown, 69, of Evans City, and Marcia D. Carnahan, 80, of Slippery Rock, were pronounced dead at the scene, according to state police. The crash occurred around 10:45 a.m. Friday near the intersection of Evans City Road and Buhl Road.
On Friday, the Butler County Bar Association made a Facebook post which shared the news about McGown.
“Kathy was a fierce advocate for her clients and a deeply valued member of our legal community,” the bar association said. “Her dedication, compassion and unwavering commitment made a lasting difference in the lives of many.”
Save Slippery Rock Creek, an organization made up of residents trying to protect the creek, made a similar announcement on Facebook regarding Carnahan’s death on Saturday.
“In honoring her memory, we commit to carrying forward Marcia’s work — to preserve the natural beauty of Slippery Rock Creek and to continue advocating for the health and safety of the people who call this community home,” the organization said. “Though she may no longer be with us, Marcia’s influence will live on in every effort to protect and care for the environment, and in every person who is inspired to speak out in her name.”
Police said McGown was traveling west on Evans City Road in a Jeep Cherokee when she crossed over the double-yellow line and hit the Cadillac XTS of Carnahan. Police said McGown was not wearing a seat belt.
PennDOT temporarily closed Evans City Road from Buhl Road to Brownsdale Road.
State police, Evans City Area Volunteer Fire Department, Connoquenessing Volunteer Fire Company and Harmony EMS responded to the initial call.
Police said the investigation is ongoing.
This story was updated at 9 a.m. Monday, Oct. 20 to reflect Harmony EMS responded to the incident. A previous version of this story incorrectly said Harmony Fire District responded.
