What Is the Jay Alert Notification System and Why Pennsylvania Needs It Now
A Tragic Loss That Sparked a Statewide Movement
Hit-and-run crashes remain one of the most devastating forms of traffic violence in Pennsylvania. Each year, more than 110,000 crashes occur statewide, and when a driver flees the scene, families are left not only grieving, but searching for answers. 
In 2016, the tragic death of 8-year-old Jayanna Powell exposed a dangerous gap in the system. After being struck in a Philadelphia crosswalk, the driver fled and attempted to repair the damaged vehicle far away from the crash location. It took weeks before the car was identified. That delay highlighted how easily drivers can evade accountability when no rapid-alert mechanism exists.
Jayanna’s family transformed unimaginable grief into advocacy. Her mother, Ayeshia Poole, and aunt, Jasmine Hoffman, co-founded the Jay Alert Notification System to help ensure no other family faces the same heartbreak.
What the Jay Alert Notification System Would Do
Modeled After the AMBER Alert
The proposed Jay Alert would operate similarly to an AMBER Alert—but specifically for fatal or serious hit-and-run crashes.
When a qualifying crash occurs, alerts would be sent quickly to auto body shops across the region with key identifying details, including:
- The make and model of the suspected vehicle
- Full or partial license plate information
- Distinctive identifying features
- Likely damage consistent with the crash
Because many fleeing drivers attempt to repair their vehicles quickly, body shops are often the first-place critical evidence surfaces. A rapid notification system would empower shop owners to alert law enforcement immediately, dramatically increasing the chance of timely identification.
Where the Legislation Stands
Pennsylvania State Senator Anthony H. Williams first introduced the Jay Alert bill in 2017 and reintroduced the bill again in 2023. A companion bill was introduced into the House by PA State Representative Morgan Cephas in 2024. In 2026, Senator Williams released a co-sponsor memo. These two elected legislators have been instrumental in keeping this legislation on the table. They were also onsite at the renaming of the intersection on Lansdowne Avenue as “Jayanna Powell Way” (December 2025).
Why Pennsylvania Needs Jay Alert Now
Hit-and-run crashes are uniquely cruel. When a driver chooses to flee rather than render aid, it compounds the trauma for victims and their families. Currently, delays in identifying suspect vehicles allow too many reckless drivers to escape justice.
The Jay Alert system is designed not only to improve investigations—but to change driver behavior. Swift identification increases accountability, and accountability saves lives. Jayanna’s family has fought for nearly a decade to close this gap in public safety. Passing the Jay Alert Notification System would be a powerful step toward safer streets across Pennsylvania.
Interested in Learning More?
Jasmine Hoffman will be presenting about the Jay Alert initiative at the Philly Bike Expo on March 14, 2026, 3pm at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.
To understand the full story behind Jayanna’s legacy, the legislative journey, and how you can support this effort, read the complete article and join the movement for safer Pennsylvania roads: https://www.pasaferoadspac.org/what-is-the-jay-alert-notification-system-and-why-pennsylvania-needs-it-now/