Weddings are supposed to be happy times. We get together to celebrate the holy matrimony of two individuals who become one. Unfortunately, these events are sometimes marred by events outside our control. One such incident recently happened off Route 17.
The fatal pedestrian accident
According to the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Chief of Detectives, the fatal pedestrian accident occurred Saturday night outside a popular Route 17 catering hall, Fiesta in Wood-Ridge, during a wedding occurring inside the hall. Shortly before 10:00 p.m., on Franklin Avenue, the wedding guest was struck by a red Dodge, which then fled the scene of the accident, but not before striking the street’s middle divider.
After the accident
The wedding guest died soon after, and was pronounced dead by first responders. The bride also received medical attention from first responders after she reported becoming faint. Southbound Franklin Avenue was closed until about 4:00 a.m. for the investigation, but the police later found the red Dodge. Though, they are still searching for the driver of the vehicle.
In addition to first responders, the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Fatal Accident Investigations Unit and Bergen County Sheriff’s Bureau of Criminal Identification are still investigating the accident. If anyone has information about this crash, including witnesses or those with dashboard video, please contact the Wood-Ridge police at (201) 939-0476 or the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office at (201) 646-2300.
After accident options
Nothing can bring this young man back to life. However, the negligence of the hit-and-run driver can hardly be disputed, which gives the victims of this accident options. Specifically, for the young man who was killed, a wrongful death lawsuit, and if any bystander was injured, a personal injury lawsuit. In fact, even those who attended the wedding or witnessed the accident may have a case too, depending on the facts. This is why it is so important for those in Mount Laurel, New Jersey and Burlington County involved in accidents, or their families when someone passes, should contact an attorney immediately.