SLIPPERY ROCK TWP, Lawrence County — One person was killed and another seriously injured Monday morning when a tractor-trailer slammed into their compact car on Route 422 near the Lawrence-Butler County line.

Beverly K. Hassinger, 59, of Shenango Township, a front seat passenger in the car, died at the scene, authorities said. The driver, Edward Sturges, 59, of Shenango Township, remains hospitalized with major injuries.

State police said the crash happened about 7:45 a.m. when Sturges lost control of his 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt after applying the brakes while traveling east on Route 422 at Fox Road near Living Treasures Animal Park.

The couple was reportedly headed to Butler County, investigators said.

Their car traveled into the opposing lane and was struck on the passenger side by the tractor-trailer, authorities said. The trucker, Ovidiu Tihauan, 44, of Mundelein, Ill., was not injured.

Lawrence County Deputy Coroner Alfred Decardo pronounced Hassinger dead at 10:40 a.m. of injuries in the wreck. An autopsy was done but the findings were not known as of this morning.

A medical helicopter flew Sturges to an unknown Pittsburgh hospital. His condition was not known this morning.

Police said all occupants in both vehicles were wearing seat belts. The car was totaled, and the rig had moderate damage. A wrecker had to tow away both vehicles.

The Slippery Rock Township and Scott Township volunteer fire departments assisted at the scene. Noga Ambulance and Medevac Ambulance also were called.

The westbound and center lanes of the highway were closed for more than five hours for emergency crews to respond and police to investigate. The highway reopened to all traffic shortly after 1 p.m.

Rescuers said the highway was slush-covered during and just after the rush-hour period but it was not known if road conditions played a role in the crash.

Police said their investigation continues.