LANCASTER, PA — David Whisman, a 42-year-old resident of New Providence, will proceed to Lancaster County Court on charges stemming from a fatal crash that occurred on Christmas Day in 2022. The incident resulted in the death of 86-year-old Frank Cascarella and injuries to another individual. Whisman waived his right to a preliminary hearing before Magisterial District Judge William Mankin on Monday.
The charges against Whisman include homicide by vehicle while under the influence of fentanyl, aggravated assault by vehicle while DUI, and several other related offenses. This decision follows a tragic collision involving Whisman’s white Nissan Sentra and a dark Honda Odyssey minivan near PA 272, just south of Truce Road, Providence Township.
According to reports, a Pennsylvania State Police Trooper was alerted to the crash by a motorist and upon arrival, observed heavy front-end damage to both vehicles involved. Evidence collected at the scene included glass smoking devices with suspected drug residue and a prescription for Buprenorphine and Naloxone Sublingual Film with Whisman’s name, suggesting impairment at the time of the accident.
Whisman allegedly admitted to consuming fentanyl before the crash, a claim supported by a blood test revealing the presence of the drug in his system. Frank Cascarella succumbed to multiple traumatic injuries on January 12, 2023, with the Lancaster County Coroner’s Office ruling the death accidental.
The second victim sustained significant injuries, including a hematoma, a large knee laceration, and a liver laceration. Investigations into the crash have ruled out mechanical defects in Whisman’s vehicle and external factors such as roadway conditions or weather as contributing causes.
As Whisman prepares to face these serious allegations in court, it is important to remember that an indictment or criminal complaint is not a declaration of guilt. All individuals accused of a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The upcoming trial will undoubtedly be closely watched, as it touches upon critical issues of substance abuse, road safety, and legal accountability.
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