A two-and-a-half-year veteran of the Central Berks Police Department died Friday night when her patrol car crashed while responding to an emergency assist request from a neighboring law enforcement agency, authorities said Saturday.

Officer Kristen Yeager, responding near the intersection of Manatawny and Shoemaker Roads in Earl Township, was pronounced dead at the scene. The crash occurred just before 8 p.m. as she traveled to support another department's call, officials confirmed.

Pennsylvania State Police are investigating the incident. No details have been released on the cause of the crash or whether other vehicles were involved. West Philadelphia Avenue and surrounding roads were closed for approximately four hours as emergency crews worked the scene.

EMS units from Oley, Boyertown and Earl Township responded to the crash. The Earl Township Fire Company later thanked mutual aid agencies and first responders for their assistance. The roadway reopened to traffic shortly after midnight.

Central Berks Police described Yeager as a dedicated officer who "served the citizens of our community with courage, compassion, and unwavering dedication." The department noted that throughout her career, she "exemplified the highest standards of law enforcement, selflessly answering the call to protect and serve while placing the safety and well-being of others above her own."

Community impact and department response

The loss has shaken the small department and the broader Berks County community. Yeager leaves behind her husband and three children. In the immediate aftermath, colleagues organized a meal train to support department members affected by the tragedy. Donations can be dropped off at the Central Berks........

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