SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ – A devastating collision resulted in the death of three people in South Brunswick on Friday morning. A tractor-trailer and a van carrying developmentally disabled adults crashed on Route 1 at Ridge Road just after 9:30 a.m., according to police.
Police reports indicate that the three deceased individuals were in the minivan, which erupted in flames post-collision. The intensity of the fire made it impossible for anyone to be rescued from the vehicle.
“The impact was significant. It pushed it [the van] almost 200 yards from the intersection,” South Brunswick Deputy Police Chief Jim Ryan stated.
While the tractor-trailer’s driver survived with minor injuries, the Princeton-based firm Community Options that operates the van mourned their loss. The organization is known for offering housing and employment assistance to the developmentally and intellectually disabled.
Robert Stack from Community Options expressed his condolences, “Our heart goes out to the two people with severe disabilities who we have supported and to the staff person. Our prayers are with the families and all of their loved ones.”
Adding to the sentiments, South Brunswick Police Chief Raymond Hayducka announced the fatalities of the horrific crash in a released statement.
Following the accident, the northbound lanes on Route 1 were closed for the entire day. The accident site remains closed as investigators work on determining the cause of the crash, and cleanup activities are underway.
Motorists are advised to use Route 27 and Route 130 as alternate routes. Anyone with information is being requested to contact the South Brunswick Police Department or Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office.