Pedestrian killed in State College crash identified

A pedestrian killed in a crash Wednesday near the Penn State campus has been identified.

Josef Blunschi, 66, of State College, was crossing East Park Avenue at McKee Street when he was struck, according to State College police. He was taken by Centre LifeLink EMS to Mount Nittany Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead. There were no other reported injuries.

An autopsy for Blunschi is scheduled for Friday. Police notified next of kin before identifying him publicly. They are continuing to investigate the crash.

The driver of the vehicle involved in the crash was Kay Shamalla, 68, of State College. No charges related to the crash have been filed.

Blunschi worked part time at the university and was a graduate student pursuing his doctorate in energy and mineral engineering.

“This was a tragic accident and very sad news,” Penn State spokeswoman Lisa Powers said. “Our hearts go out to his family and friends at this difficult time.”

Park Avenue was closed between Allen Street and Shortlidge Road after the 6:50 p.m. crash. State College police were assisted by Penn State police and Alpha fire police.

Anyone with information is asked to call State College police at 234-7150.

This story was originally published February 25, 2016 at 12:01 PM with the headline "Pedestrian killed in State College crash identified."