A blown tire may be to blame for a fatal accident involving a RV along Interstate 79 in the McKean Township area.

The crash was reported around 5:10 p.m. Monday in the northbound lanes of I-79, just south of mile marker 172.

A tire on the driver's side blew and the Winnebago motor home left the roadway, crossed into the median and hit a tree, according to reports from the scene.

The coroner has confirmed that the male driver, Malcom Beauchamp, of Northport, New York, has died. The female passenger, Suzanne Beauchamp, also of Northport, suffered injuries and has been taken to the UPMC Hamot.

The couple was traveling with three dogs. Two have been found while one is still missing. The two found are okay and were taken to a local Animal Shelter until the woman is released from the hospital. 

Erie County Coroner Lyell Cook said, "Naturally because this is a motor vehicle accident, we will perform toxicology but an autopsy at this time is not being considered." 

PA State Police Crime Section Commander, Wayne Kline also spoke with Erie News Now, "According to some witnesses, the tire popped and when the tire popped and you're driving a vehicle that size they become difficult to steer." 

The passing lane of I-79 northbound was closed for hours while police investigated.