Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania: Danyel Miller Dies After Multi-Vehicle Collision On Southbound I-81 Friday
Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania — Danyel Miller, 36, of Shenandoah, tragically passed following a multi-vehicle crash on southbound Interstate 81 near mile marker 135.5 Friday evening, November 14, 2025. The collision, which occurred around 5:49 p.m., involved a 2024 Honda Civic, a 2024 International tractor-trailer, and Miller’s 2016 Audi Q5. Authorities say the chain of events was sudden and violent, leaving the highway closed for several hours as first responders and investigators worked at the scene.
According to Pennsylvania State Police from Frackville, the crash began when Rafael Ceballos, 28, of Hazleton, was driving a 2024 Honda Civic southbound and attempted to overtake a halted vehicle by using the right shoulder. As the Honda reentered the travel lane, its front right side clipped the rear left of a 2024 International tractor-trailer operated by 45-year-old Charvel Prophete of Columbus, Ohio. This impact caused the Honda to spin uncontrollably, coming to rest in the right lane facing north.
As the Honda stalled, Miller’s Audi Q5, traveling in the left lane, collided with the disabled vehicle. The force of the impact sent the Audi off the pavement and down the median’s grassy slope. The vehicle flipped multiple times before finally resting in the northbound left lane, oriented east. Emergency personnel arrived quickly, but despite immediate medical attention, Miller sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Schuylkill County Coroner’s Office.
Ceballos and Prophete were transported to nearby hospitals with minor injuries. Ceballos was taken by McAdoo Fire Company Ambulance to Lehigh Valley Hospital-Hazleton, while Prophete was transported by Shenandoah Community Ambulance to Lehigh Valley Hospital-Schuylkill East. While the Civic and Audi Q5 sustained significant damage, the tractor-trailer remained largely intact, stopping on the west shoulder of the highway.
The severity of the crash necessitated a full closure of southbound and northbound lanes as emergency crews, investigators, and crash reconstruction specialists documented the scene. Pennsylvania State Police have confirmed that their investigation is ongoing, including the review of skid marks, vehicle positions, and witness statements. At this time, authorities have not released information regarding impairment, mechanical failures, or other potential contributing factors.
The community of Shenandoah and surrounding areas have expressed shock at the sudden and tragic loss of Miller. Friends, family, and residents are mourning while attempting to process the scale of the accident. Local leaders and emergency responders have urged drivers to exercise caution on highways, particularly in conditions where multiple vehicles may need to maneuver around slow or stopped traffic.
Miller’s passing has left a profound impact on the Shenandoah community. Tributes have been shared by family and friends, highlighting his character, work ethic, and the positive influence he had on those around him. Authorities continue to investigate the chain of events that led to the crash, while community members focus on honoring Miller’s memory and supporting those affected by the tragedy.
The incident serves as a somber reminder of the dangers present on busy interstate roadways. Emergency services and investigators remain dedicated to understanding the circumstances, ensuring accountability, and providing care for all individuals involved in the aftermath of this devastating collision.