Good morning, Reading.

A fatal crash — when a passenger vehicle hit the back of a tractor-trailer — closed the southbound lanes on Route 222 at Dries Road in Maidencreek Township on Thursday morning as emergency workers used heavy equipment to free the trapped driver.

A Reading man, Bradford W.

Steele, 35, was arrested in a northern Berks wheatfield Wednesday morning after police chased him in a stolen car at speeds over 125 mph along Route 222—he said he stole the vehicle from a dealership to visit his father in Kutztown and now faces charges including theft, agricultural vandalism, aggravated assault and reckless endangerment.

Williams Valley High School held its commencement on June 26—students received many scholarships and honors.

The awards recognized academic and athletic achievements and highlighted valedictorian Sage Smeltz, salutatorian Caleb Raho, and Dakota Demyan for earning top honors in their fields.

The Reading Historical Architectural Review Board asked the city to explain why the buildings at 431 and 435 Penn St were torn down when the plan was to keep their front sides; the board also requested a new engineering report within 30 days and will meet on July 29 to review the demolition plan for 441 Penn St.

Cumru Township Police have issued temporary parking restrictions and planned road closures for the Governor Mifflin League Community Days event at the Governor Mifflin campus from today through July 5.

A full road closure will begin at 7:00 p.m. on July 5 — lasting until the fireworks display ends — on portions of Governor and Elkins Avenues.

After nearly 40 years, owner Craig Stein sold the Reading Fightin Phils to Diamond Baseball Holdings + the new owners say they will maintain the team’s local charm.

Berks Celtic Fest 2025

11 AM – 5 PM — Reading Liederkranz — Free for RLK members — Celebrate Celtic culture with food, music, and festivities.

Ryan Adams Concert

7:00-9:30 p.m. — Santander Arena — Ticket prices vary — Catch Ryan Adams live and enjoy an evening of incredible music.

Intro to D&D with the Park Rangers

6-8 p.m. — Berks County Heritage Center — Free entry — Explore the world of Dungeons and Dragons through guided one-shot adventures.

Jorge Medina and Josi Cuen - JUNTOS

8-10 p.m. — Santander Arena — Last-minute concert tickets available — Experience a vibrant performance by Jorge Medina and Josi Cuen in Reading, PA.

Michael Blaustein Live Show

7-8:30 p.m. — Santander Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an entertaining evening with comedian Michael Blaustein, famous from MTV and Comedy Central.