Category: South Brunswick
Middlesex County, South Brunswick	 January 10, 2022
South Brunswick Man Arrested for Burglary, Possession of CDS, and Operating a Vehicle Under the Influence
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–On January 7th at about 9:30 pm, officers responded to Avenue A for a report of a man trying to gain entry to a parked vehicle. The reporting party stated that the man, later identified as Christopher Robinson, 46 years old, from South Brunswick, had pulled up in front of his home, parked blocking his driveway, beeped his horn, and exited his vehicle. Mr. Robinson then walked to the reporting man's car, which was parked in his driveway, and attempted to enter the car.
When Patrol Officer Bryan Garrison arrived, he located Mr. Robinson still attempting to enter the vehicle. Mr. Robinson made several statements that were rambling and confusing in nature, and would not account for why he was there or why he was trying to enter the vehicle. Mr. Robinson admitted to having consumed alcohol prior to driving to Avenue A.
Patrol Officer First Class Peter Santa placed Mr. Robinson under arrest on suspicion of Attempted Burglary to the motor vehicle and Driving While Under the Influence. On being searched, Mr. Robinson was found to be in possession of 28 Oxycodone tablets. Mr. Robinson was also charged with Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance.
"Mr. Robinson's actions were erratic, and it was extremely dangerous for him to be operating a motor vehicle in that condition. Luckily, officers were able to arrest him and keep him off the roadways before he hurt someone," said Chief of Police Raymond J. Hayducka. "We take Driving under the Influence very seriously, and I commend my officers for their actions in keeping the community safe."
Mr. Robinson was turned over to North Brunswick Police, who had an active warrant for his arrest.
Middlesex County, South Brunswick	 December 22, 2021
Vehicle Collides with Tractor Trailer in South Brunswick
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–A vehicle ran under a tractor trailer at the intersection of Route 130 and Fresh Ponds Road this evening. There were reported injuries in the collision. More details to follow as they become available. South Brunswick Police Department is investigating the crash.
Middlesex County, South Brunswick	 November 16, 2021 November 17, 2021
Individual from Plainsboro Identified in Connection with Officer-involved Fatal Collision in South Brunswick
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone announced that a pedestrian killed in a collision involving a New Jersey State Police trooper has been identified.
On November 11, 2021, at approximately 5:55 A.M., members of the South Brunswick Police Department responded to the southbound lane of Route 1 near Raymond Road in South Brunswick following a report that a marked New Jersey State Police vehicle was involved in a fatal collision with a male pedestrian. Upon their arrival, authorities located a male pedestrian who was pronounced dead at the scene. Following a notification from the South Brunswick Police, detectives of the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office responded and assumed control of the scene.
Based on the continuing investigation, authorities have identified the pedestrian as Donelle Miles, 50, of Plainsboro.
The investigation is active and continuing. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Jonathan Berman of the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office at (732) 745-4328.
Update: Middlesex Prosecutor Reviewing Fatal Pedestrian Collision Involving A NJ State Trooper On Route 1 In South Brunswick
Traffic Alert: Avoid Route 1 Southbound at Raymond Road – Road Closed Due to Traffic Investigation
UPDATE: Route 1 has been reopened.
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone announced that a fatal pedestrian collision involving a New Jersey State Police trooper is under review.
This morning, at approximately 5:55 A.M., members of the South Brunswick Police Department responded to the southbound lane of Route 1 near Raymond Road in South Brunswick following a report that a marked New Jersey State Police vehicle was involved in a fatal collision with a male pedestrian. Upon their arrival, authorities located a male pedestrian who was pronounced dead at the scene and whose identity is pending confirmation. Following a notification from the South Brunswick Police, detectives of the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office responded and assumed control of the scene.
Earlier MidJersey.News story here:
UPDATE: Road has been reopened.
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Route 1 Southbound at Raymond Road will be closed for the next 6 hours. Avoid the area. Other roadways in the township may be impacted by the Route 1 road closure. Plan alternate routes and leave extra time for your commute.
Around 6:15 a.m. the South Brunswick Police Department responded to a pedestrian struck on Route 1 a short time later the roadway was closed for a traffic investigation.
Middlesex County, South Brunswick	 November 10, 2021
Pedestrian Struck Monday Morning In South Brunswick
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–At 8:11 a.m. on November 8, 2021, South Brunswick Police Department responded to a report of a pedestrian struck on New Road near the Kendall Park Fire House. Upon arrival, responding officers found the victim, a 66 year-old Kendall Park man, injured on the roadway, along with a 2019 Toyota pickup truck and it's 76 year-old driver, a Princeton Junction man.
The pedestrian was transported to Robert Wood Johnson Medical Center, where he has listed in critical but stable condition.
On speaking with the driver, he stated that he had been traveling eastbound on New Road when he struck the pedestrian, who he stated was in the roadway at the time of the crash. The driver also stated that he was experiencing significant sun glare at the time of the crash.
The crash is still under investigation by the South Brunswick Police Department's Traffic Safety Bureau. No summonses have been issued. Anyone with information is asked to contact Officer Jesse Blake at (732)329-4646.
Mercer County, Middlesex County, Princeton, South Brunswick, State of NJ	 November 8, 2021 November 8, 2021
15-Year-Old From Newark Driving Stolen Jeep Crosses Double Yellow Line Killing Both Herself And 61-Year-Old Driver From Kendall Park In Head-On-Crash, 14 Year-Old Passenger From Newark In Critical Condition
November 8, 2021 — Updated with official information from Princeton Police Department and Rutgers University:
The School of Communication and Information at Rutgers University is sad to announce the passing of our colleague Jodi Marcou. Jodi joined the school in January of 2018 as a Development Specialist and was a true asset to the school adding great value to the school's development operation. Jodi was highly regarded by colleagues, donors, and alumni.
Dean Jonathan Potter expressed his deepest condolences to her family and friends upon hearing of the loss of Jodi saying that words are insufficient to express our deep sorrow for the loss of our colleague. We express our deepest sympathies and condolences to Jodi's family and friends.
PRINCETON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–On November 7, 2021 at 12:40 p.m., the Princeton Police Department was dispatched to a residence on the 100 block of Clover Lane for an attempted motor vehicle theft. The victim reported that three unknown suspects entered his vehicle in an attempt to steal the vehicle, which was parked in the driveway. The suspects were driving a 2015 black Jeep Grand Cherokee, which was later determined to be stolen out of Pequannock Township, NJ.
While Princeton Police were on scene investigating the attempted theft, the Jeep Grand Cherokee was observed traveling west on Clover Lane, followed by a 2015 Land Rover Range Rover. It was reported at that time that the Range Rover was just stolen from a residence on Dodds Lane.
The investigating officer returned to his vehicle and followed behind the Range Rover on Clover Lane. The Jeep Grand Cherokee drove away in an unknown direction.
The Range Rover suddenly accelerated at a high rate of speed and the officer attempted to conduct a motor vehicle stop. A motor vehicle pursuit ensued but was terminated on Snowden Lane due to the reckless driving of the Range Rover. The Range Rover was last observed driving south on Snowden Lane, and made a left turn onto Princeton-Kingston Road. The Range Rover was later found abandoned in Newark, NJ.
At 1:09 p.m., Princeton Police were dispatched to Princeton-Kingston Road in the area of Carnegie Drive for a motor vehicle crash. Preliminary investigation revealed that the Jeep Grand Cherokee, driven by a 15 year old juvenile was traveling east on Princeton-Kingston Road and crossed over the double yellow line and struck head-on a 2016 Acura RDX driven by Jodi Marcou that was traveling west. Marcou and the 15 year old driver were both pronounced dead at the scene. The 14 year old passenger was transported to Capitol Health Regional Medical Center in Princeton, NJ and is in critical condition.
The crash is being investigated by the Princeton Police Department and Mercer County Prosecutor's Office. PPD is requesting that anybody who witnessed the crash to contact Traffic Safety Bureau supervisor Sergeant Thomas Murray at 609-921-2100 ext. 1879.
An additional press release will follow when new information becomes available.
Vehicle #1
Jodi Marcou (Driver) Kendall Park,, NJ 08088 61 years old (Deceased)
Vehicle #2:
15 year old juvenile (Driver) Newark, NJ (Deceased)
14 year old juvenile (Passenger) Newark, NJ
Middlesex County, North Brunswick, South Brunswick	 October 30, 2021
South Brunswick man sentenced in North Brunswick serious crash
NORTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Chief Joseph Battaglia of the North Brunswick Police Department announce today that a man has been sentenced for his role in causing a serious crash that left multiple people injured on August 8, 2020.
An investigation by Patrolman Jason Zier of the North Brunswick Police Department and Detective Jonathan Berman of the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office determined that on August 8, 2020, at approximately 8:50 pm Christopher L. Mertens, 42, of Monmouth Junction was driving while intoxicated. The investigation determined Mertens, accompanied by his two young children, was travelling southbound on Route 1 at a high speed when he rear ended a 2003 Chevrolet Blazer causing it to roll over and catch on fire.
The driver of the Blazer, a nineteen-year-old man, sustained burn injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. The sole passenger of the Blazer, a twenty-one-year-old woman, along with Mertens' children were also transported from the scene for medical treatment.
On August 9, 2020, Mertens was arrested and charged with second- degree aggravated assault, second-degree endangering the welfare of a child, third-degree assault by auto, third-degree endangering another person by knowingly engaging in conduct which creates a substantial risk of death, three counts of fourth-degree assault by auto, and fourth-degree obstruction.
On October 27, 2021, following sentencing arguments from Assistant Prosecutor Keith Abrams and Assistant Prosecutor Kaitlyn Poggi, the Honorable Craig Corson, J.S.C. sentenced Mertens to eleven years in state prison on one count of second-degree aggravated assault, two counts of second-degree endangering the welfare of a child, one count of third-degree aggravated assault, and one count of fourth-degree causing serious bodily injury. Mertens must serve 85% of his sentence, approximately nine-and-a- half years, before he is eligible for parole. Upon his release, Mertens will be subject to an eight-year loss of license.
Middlesex County, South Brunswick	 October 21, 2021
Overturned Truck On Broadway Road In South Brunswick
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–South Brunswick Police, Fire Departments and EMS responded to Broadway Road for an overturned dump truck at the curve around 9:00 a.m. Initially there was reported entrapment but the driver was able to self extricate. There were no injuries reported in the crash. The roadway was closed until the dump truck could up righted and towed away. South Brunswick Police are investigating.
Bridgewater Township, Middlesex County, Plainsboro, Somerset, South Brunswick	 October 19, 2021
Aggravated Sexual Assault Suspect Being Sought; Similar Incident In Duke Island Park, Bridgewater
PLAINSBORO-SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone, Chief Fred Tavener of the Plainsboro Police Department, and Chief Raymond Hayducka of the South Brunswick Police Department announce authorities are seeking the public's assistance in identifying an individual believed to be involved in an aggravated sexual assault that occurred in the area of Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park on the border of Plainsboro and South Brunswick Townships.
A joint investigation has determined that on September 28, 2021 between 4:30 P.M. and 5:00 P.M., an adult woman was walking on a path adjacent to the canal where she was approached by a male armed with a weapon and moved to a secondary location on the Plainsboro-South Brunswick border where she was sexually assaulted.
The suspect is described as a Hispanic male, age range of 40's-50's, approximately 5'5" – 5'6" tall, wearing dark colored clothing and a dark baseball cap. The individual is believed to have been riding a bike.
This incident has similarities to a sexual assault that occurred in Duke Island Park in Bridgewater Township, Somerset County on Sunday evening, July 18, 2021.
Marlboro Man Charged With Vehicular Homicide In South Brunswick Crash
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Chief Raymond Hayducka of the South Brunswick Police Department announced today that a man has been charged in connection with a fatal crash in South Brunswick.
At approximately 4:35 A.M., on September 19, 2021, South Brunswick police officers responded to the area of Major Road following the report of a single-car motor vehicle crash. An investigation by Officer William Beard of the South Brunswick Police Department and Detective Jonathan Berman of the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office determined Antonino Ferlita, 22, of Marlboro was driving a 2002 Ford F-350 on Major Road when he left his lane of travel, overturned the truck, and struck a tree. The sole passenger of the vehicle, Gerald Pellak, III, 22, of Dayton, died at the scene.
Today, Antonino Ferlita was charged with one count of second-degree vehicular homicide, driving while intoxicated, and other motor vehicle offenses.
The investigation is active and is continuing. Anyone with information is asked to call Officer Beard of the South Brunswick Police Department at (732) 329-4000 ext. 4646, or Detective Berman of the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office at (732) 745-4328.
As is the case with all criminal defendants, the charges against Ferlita are merely accusations and he is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Middlesex County, South Brunswick	 October 8, 2021
Two Serious Crashes Under Investigation In South Brunswick
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–South Brunswick Police continue to investigate two serious crashes in the past 48 hours that critically injured one person and left two other people with serious injuries. Both crashes occurred less than a mile from each other in the Dayton section of the Township.
The first crash took place on Wednesday, October 6th at 8:53 pm at the intersection of Stults Road at Herrod Boulevard. A 28-year-old East Brunswick man operating a 2005 Suzuki motorcycle was traveling eastbound when he attempted to pass a 2014 Nissan, operated by a 35-year-old Somerset man, in a no-passing zone. While the Suzuki was passing the Nissan, the Nissan attempted to make a left turn onto Herrod Boulevard and struck the motorcycle, causing it to lose control and strike a utility pole. The East Brunswick man was taken by South Brunswick EMS and paramedics to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick. He was listed in critical condition.
The second crash took place on Thursday, October 7th at 10:14 pm on Route 130 in the area on Stults Road. A 24-year-old Cinnaminson woman operating a 2010 Kia was traveling northbound on Route 130 when she attempted to make an illegal U-turn across the grass divider. When the Kia crossed into the southbound lanes of Route 130, it was struck by a 2003 Ford operated by a 42-year-old man from Browns Mills who was unable to stop in time. The crash caused both vehicles to catch fire, and both were engulfed in flames by the time the Monmouth Junction Fire Department arrived. The driver of the Ford received burns and lacerations to his arms and head. The driver of the Kia received a head injury. Both were transported by EMS to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick with serious injuries not believed to be life-threatening.
Both crashes are still under investigation, and anyone with additional information is asked to call the South Brunswick Police Department at (732)329-4646.
Middlesex County, Plainsboro, South Brunswick	 October 1, 2021 October 2, 2021
Police Release Composite Photograph Of Aggravated Sexual Assault Suspect, That Occurred At The Delaware And Raritan Canal State Park On Border Of Plainsboro And South Brunswick
PLAINSBORO, SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone, Chief Fred Tavener of the Plainsboro Police Department, and Chief Raymond Hayducka of the South Brunswick Police Department announce authorities are seeking the public's assistance in identifying an individual believed to be involved in an aggravated sexual assault that occurred in the area of Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park on the border of Plainsboro and South Brunswick Townships.
A joint investigation has determined, on September 28, 2021 between 4:30 P.M. and 5:00 P.M., an adult woman was walking on a path adjacent to the canal where she was approached by a male armed with a weapon and moved to a secondary location on the Plainsboro-South Brunswick border where she was sexually assaulted.
The suspect is believed to be a Latino male, approximately 5'5" – 5'6" tall, wearing dark colored clothing and a dark baseball cap.
The investigation is active and continuing. Anyone with information or surveillance footage of the area is asked to contact Detective Sue Kowalski of the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office at (732) 745-3287, Detective Patrick Miller of the Plainsboro Police Department at (609)799-2333, or Detective Dominick Delucia of the South Brunswick Police Department at (732)329-4646. Tips may also be submitted to www.middlesextips.com
Authorities Are Investigating An Aggravated Sexual Assault In Area Of Delaware And Raritan Canal State Park Near Border Of Plainsboro And South Brunswick
Composite photograph of the suspect by the NJ State Police Forensic Artist Unit
Middlesex County, Plainsboro, South Brunswick	 September 29, 2021
PLAINSBORO-SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone, Chief Fred Tavener
of the Plainsboro Police Department, and Chief Raymond Hayducka of the South Brunswick Police Department announce authorities are investigating an aggravated sexual assault that occurred in the area of Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park on the border of Plainsboro and South Brunswick Townships.
A joint investigation has determined, on September 28, 2021, between 4:30 P.M. and 5:00 P.M., an adult woman was walking on a path adjacent to the canal where she was approached by a male armed with a weapon and moved to a secondary location on the Plainsboro-South Brunswick border where she was sexually assaulted.
The suspect is believed to be a Hispanic male, approximately 5'5"-5'6" tall, wearing dark-colored clothing and a dark baseball cap.
The investigation is active and continuing. Anyone with information
or surveillance footage of the area is asked to contact Detective Sue
Kowalski of the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office at (732) 745-3287, Detective Patrick Miller of the Plainsboro Police Department at (609)799- 2333, or Detective Dominick Delucia of the South Brunswick Police Department at (732)329-4646. Tips may also be submitted to http://www.middlesextips.com.
Middlesex County, South Brunswick	 September 27, 2021
Drunk Driver with Loaded Handgun Crashes In South Brunswick
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–South Brunswick Police arrested a 28 year old Philadelphia man after he crashed his car with a loaded handgun on Route 1 Sunday morning September 26, at 2:39 a.m., Officer Kyle Klemas responded to a single car crash on Route 1 south near Sandhill Road. Officer Klemas found the 2016 BMW had collided into a utility pole and the driver, Alman Isangulov age 28 of Philadelphia and a passenger were still sitting in the vehicle. Officer Klemas observed Islangulov to have slurred speech and watery bloodshot eyes. Islangulov and his passenger both denied being injured and admitted to drinking alcohol in Brooklyn before attempting to drive home. As Officer Klemas spoke with the two men, Officer Brooke Goetz arrived and approached the passenger side of the vehicle. Officer Goetz observed a loaded Glock 31 on the passenger side floor of the car. Further investigation recovered a Glock airsoft gun from the rear passenger compartment of the gun. Both guns were connected to Islangulov
Islangulov was arrested and transported to South Brunswick Police headquarters. He was charged with two counts of unlawful possession of a firearm and driving while intoxicated. He was lodged at the Middlesex County Correction Center pending his first court appearance.
Chief Raymond Hayducka said, "To be drunk driving with a loaded handgun is just reckless. This driver was impaired to the point he crashed and had in his possession a loaded handgun. This could have ended in tragedy in so many ways, from the crash, to the weapon, to the officers' interaction. I want to credit Officers Klemas and Goetz for slowing things down and taking this suspect into custody without any injury."
Update: Fatal Accident In South Brunswick Friday Evening
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–South Brunswick Police continue to investigate the Friday evening crash on Route 130 that claimed the life of a Somerset County man. At 7:16 PM police responded to Route 130 south at the intersection of Deans Rhode Hall Road for a motor vehicle crash involving a passenger car and a tractor-trailer. Officers arrived to find a 2015 Dodge Dart had run into the rear of a 2015 Volvo tractor-trailer. The driver of the Dodge, a 52-year-old man from Somerset County was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the tractor-trailer was uninjured. The preliminary investigation revealed the tractor-trailer was stopped at the traffic signal when the Dodge ran under the back of the tractor-trailer.
The Monmouth Junction Fire Department, South Brunswick EMS, Middlesex County Medical Examiner, and the New Jersey State Department of Transportation responded to the crash. The highway southbound was closed for five hours during the investigation.
Anyone with information on the crash is asked to call South Brunswick Police Traffic Safety PFC Jesse Blake at (732) 329-4646.
Serious Crash Closes Route 130 South Bound In South Brunswick
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–A serious accident happened on Route 130 south bound near Deans Rhode Hall Rd, at approximately 7:15 p.m. last night September 24, 2021. Fire Departments and the first aid squad responded to the scene for reported entrapment.
South Brunswick Police sent at NIXLE Alert at 7:36 p.m. to Avoid Route 130 Southbound between Distribution Way and Deans Rhode Hall Road due to a motor vehicle crash.
The serious accident investigation team was on scene investigating the accident.
No further details are available at this time. There was no official word of the condition of the occupant of the car.
Avoid Route 130 Southbound between Distribution Way and Deans Rhode Hall Road due to a motor vehicle crash. https://t.co/wMxi06uSD8
— So Brunswick PD (@SoBrunswickPD) September 24, 2021
Middlesex County, South Brunswick	 September 20, 2021 September 22, 2021
22-Year-Old Dies In South Brunswick Crash
September 20, 2021 — Update Gofundme has been set up see below: Jerry's Funeral Expenses Gofundme
Gerald Pellak, III, 22, of Dayton
Jerry's Funeral Expenses Gofundme
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Chief Raymond Hayducka of the South Brunswick Police Department announced today that an early morning crash resulting in one fatality is under investigation.
At approximately 4:35 A.M., on September 19, 2021, South Brunswick police officers responded to the area of Major Road for a single-car motor vehicle crash. The investigation revealed a 2005 Ford F-350 driven by a 22- year-old Pennsylvania man left the roadway and overturned. A passenger in the vehicle, Gerald Pellak, III, 22, of Dayton, died at the scene.
The investigation is active and is continuing. Anyone with information is asked to call Officer William Beard of the South Brunswick Police Department at (732) 329-4000 ext. 7439, or Detective Jonathan Berman of the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office at (732) 745-4328.
On September 19th, Jerry Pellak unexpectedly passed away. If you knew Jerry, you'd know how much he touched the lives of everyone around him. He always lit up the room wherever he was. He had a contagious smile and laugh. He will be missed dearly but the memories we have all created with Jerry will not be forgotten.
I have created this gofundme to help raise money to cover the expense of Jerry's funeral arrangements as the family deals with this loss.Any donation is greatly appreciated and we ask that you continue to keep his family in your thoughts and prayers.
Middlesex County, South Brunswick	 September 3, 2021
South Brunswick Police Investigate Serious Crash That Critically Injured 22-year-old Driver
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–South Brunswick Police continue to investigate a crash from Wednesday morning September 1, that critically injured a 22-year-old Middlesex County man. At 6:35 AM South Brunswick Police responded to a serious motor vehicle crash on Route 522 at Ridge Road / East Gate Drive. The crash occurred when the driver of a 2014 Ford pickup truck headed east on Route 522 failed to stop for a red traffic signal and impacted a 2017 Toyota Corolla which was crossing over the intersection from East Gate Drive to Ridge Road. The impact of the crash pushed the Toyota into a guardrail and trapped the driver. The Monmouth Junction Fire Department responded to the crash and extricated the 22-year-old driver. South Brunswick EMS and paramedics transported the driver to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital. He is listed in critical condition in the intensive care unit.
The driver of the Ford, an 18-year-old Sussex County man was uninjured in the crash. He is cooperating with investigators.
South Brunswick Police Chief Raymond Hayducka said, "It only takes a second to lose attention and tragedy can happen. I ask everyone to keep this 22-year-old young man and his family in your prayers."
The roadway was down to one lane for two hours as traffic investigators worked at the scene.
South Brunswick Police Traffic Safety Officer William Beard is the lead investigator in the crash. Anyone with information can call (732) 329-4000 ext. 7432.
Middlesex County, South Brunswick	 August 27, 2021 September 3, 2021
2nd Alarm In South Brunswick, 2nd Fire In Same Building This Year
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Around 8:00 p.m. all South Brunswick Fire Departments were dispatched to 5 Stults Road for a fire in a warehouse at Sonoco Products Company. There were reports that employees were trying to extinguish the fire but were unsuccessful. When firefighters arrived there were reports of pallets on fire and the sprinkler system was holding the fire and employees were trying to move pallets to get the seat of the fire. Firefighters charged the FDC and also advanced two lines to knock down any fire. There was extensive overhaul involved in the fire. Edison Fire Department responded with large fans to blow the smoke out the building. Firefighters were still on scene at time of this report.
Partial list of departments on scene: All South Brunswick Fire Companies – Monmouth Junction, Kendall Park, Kingston, Plainsboro, Monroe Fire Department, Jamesburg Fire Department, Hightstown Fire Company, Kendall Park First Aid & Rescue Company, North Brunswick First Aid & Rescue Squad, Edison Fire Department and others. South Brunswick Police Department was also on scene.
This is a preliminary report once official information is available the story will be updated.
There was also a fire at the same location on January 19, 2021 that also called for a second alarm you can read about that fire at the links below.
MidJersey.News coverage of the previous fire at that same location:
2nd Alarm Commercial Building Fire In South Brunswick
Updated Information from South Brunswick Police here: UPDATE: 2nd Alarm Warehouse Fire
Press release from South Brunswick Police:
At 8 PM on Friday August 27th, the Monmouth Junction Fire Department was dispatched to the Sonoco Corp. at 5 Stults Road off Route 130 in the Dayton section of the Township for a fire alarm activation. Shortly after receiving the call from the alarm company reporting the fire alarm, employees from the business called 9-1-1 and reported an active fire in the warehouse. Monmouth Junction Fire Chief Scott Smith and Deputy Chief Sean Wert arrived to find a heavy smoke condition inside the building. Firefighters stretched hoselines inside and located palletized goods on fire, which was quickly contained. A total of 10 fire trucks and over 50 firefighters responded to the two-alarm fire, including firefighters from Monmouth Junction, Kendall Park, Kingston, Jamesburg, Plainsboro, North Brunswick Co. #2, Monroe Fire District #3, and Hightstown. Several large trailer-mounted fans from the Edison Fire Department were used to help ventilate the smoke condition created by burning plastic and cardboard. Firefighters from Brookview, East Brunswick District #1, Griggstown, and Montgomery Fire Co. #2 covered South Brunswick fire stations during the incident.
Ambulances from South Brunswick, North Brunswick and Monroe responded to the fire. One firefighter was treated at the scene for heat stress and transported to Princeton hospital as a precaution.
"Fortunately, the sprinkler system contained the fire to several palletized stacks of goods in the warehouse , according to Chief Smith. It was a humid evening, so we had to rotate our firefighters frequently as they moved goods in the heavily packed warehouse in order to reach the seat of the fire to complete extinguishment. We even had firefighters operating fork-lifts to move unburned product."
The fire is under investigation by the South Brunswick Township Fire Safety Bureau. Firefighters responded to a two-alarm fire at the same facility back in February of this year.
Cranbury, East Brunswick, East Windsor, Helmetta, Hightstown, Hightstown, Hightstown-East Windsor, Jamesburg, Mercer County, Middlesex County, Monroe Twp, North Brunswick, Other Towns, Plainsboro, Princeton, Robbinsville, Robbinsville, South Brunswick, State of NJ, West Windsor, West Windsor	 August 22, 2021 August 23, 2021
Tropical Storm Henri Floods Area With Up To 8 Inches Of Rain, Rescues, Evacuations, Road Closures
Heavy rains from Tropical Storm Henri flooded the area overnight with up to eight inches of rain in the Central New Jersey area. Many people traveling on flooded roadways were trapped in the vehicles and needed to be rescued.
Hightstown Fire Company reported responding to at least 10 incidents with the majority being water rescues. Hightstown firefighters rescued eight civilians who were trapped in their vehicles or relocated to the roof of their vehicles due to flood waters.
The National Weather Service reported that 4 to 8 inches of rain fell from the storm and that Middlesex and Mercer Counties were particular hard hit.
[9:12 AM] Torrential rain across portions of the region, mostly focused in central NJ. 4-8 inches of rain has been reported in several counties, with Middlesex and Mercer counties particularly hard hit with some evacuations occurring. DO NOT drive through flooded roadways! #njwx pic.twitter.com/fX5CrvHmXD
— NWS Mount Holly (@NWS_MountHolly) August 22, 2021
National Weather Service Image
Tropical Depression #Henri Advisory 28A: Henri Weakening But Still Expected to Produce Heavy Rainfall and Flooding Across Portions of Southern New England and The Northern Mid-Atlantic States Through Monday. https://t.co/VqHn0u1vgc
— National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) August 22, 2021
Runway is flooded at Trenton Robbinsville Airport N87 this morning
Sections of Route 130 was closed in several areas for flooding, East Windsor, Cranbury, South Brunswick until floodwaters receded.
Flooding in the area of Cranbury-South River Road and CR614 Dey Road, several cars were submerged and local fire departments made rescues earlier in the morning. A house and business was flooded near the location.
Flooding in Jamesburg, NJ at the Lake Manalapan dam at West Railroad Avenue.
Flooding in Jamesburg, NJ August 22, 2021
The towns on our southern border have major flooding. Nearby Jamesburg Boro flooding. (Courtesy @CBSNewYork) pic.twitter.com/Vx0PZYr4gq
— So Brunswick PD (@SoBrunswickPD) August 22, 2021
A Helmetta Public Works truck responds to flood waters and adds and resets cones blocking the road the many cars were going around and though the flood waters.
Flooding on Cranbury South River Road in South Brunswick near NJ Turnpike Exit 8A
A car stalled from flooding on Route 130 is being towed by Georges Garage at the Cranbury Township, South Brunswick Township border.
Flooding from Henri in Plainsboro, NJ August 22, 2021
Flooding in Cranbury, NJ from Heri on August 22, 2021
Flooding in the Main Street Cranbury Area from Henri, August 22, 2021
Middlesex County, South Brunswick	 August 16, 2021
Crash Sends Cars Flying Into Wendy's On Route 130 In South Brunswick
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–A crash on Route 130 sent two vehicles crashing into a Wendy's restaurant leaving two people injured. At 1:00 pm a 2008 Toyota Corolla was headed southbound on Route 130 near Melrich Road when it left the roadway, drove across the grass of a business, struck a berm on the property of Wendy's restaurant at 2533 Route 130, and became airborne. The vehicle was launched through the parking lot and struck a 2017 Audi that was waiting in the drive-thru. Both vehicles were pushed into the building and outside tables. A family dining outside narrowly missed being struck. The force of the impact shattered the restaurant windows and sent glass throughout the interior. Despite being crowded with customers and staff none of the people inside the Wendy's were injured. The Monmouth Junction Fire Department arrived and had to stabilize the Toyota before extricating the driver of the Toyota. South Brunswick EMS transported the driver to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in stable condition. A juvenile in the Audi also complained of pain and was taken by family members to an area hospital.
South Brunswick Chief Raymond Hayducka said, "This is nothing short of a miracle that no one was seriously injured or killed in this crash. To think it was the middle of the day, people were eating both inside and outside and none of them were injured. The building was damaged to the point it can't be used but everyone eating was able to walk away." The South Brunswick Building Department ruled the structure needed to be closed pending a detailed examination.
South Brunswick Police Traffic Safety Bureau is investigating the crash. Preliminary indications are the driver of the Toyota may have suffered a medical episode prior to the crash.
South Brunswick Police Photos
South Brunswick Township Creates Outreach Effort for Fire Victims
Fire Victims in Need of Assistance
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–A fire at the Princeton Orchards Apartments last Friday, August 6th heavily damaged multiple apartments leaving 8 school children and their families with a significant loss. The South Brunswick Community Resource Team is collaborating to gather donations to distribute to these families, to help meet their immediate needs for clothing, food, school supplies, and other items.
The families are mostly in need of Gift cards- Walmart, Target, Amazon, Stop & Shop, Shop Rite, drug stores, etc.
The collections should be dropped off at the front desk at South Brunswick High School – 750 Ridge Road, Monmouth Junction; South Brunswick Public Library -110 Kingston Lane, Monmouth Junction; South Brunswick Social Services – 540 Ridge Road, Monmouth Junction or South Brunswick Recreation Center -124 New Road, Monmouth Junction.
Donations will be collected through September 20, 2021. Please direct questions to Jeanne Wert at South Brunswick Director Of Social Services at South Brunswick Township (jwert@sbtnj.net) or Amy Finkelstein, Supervisor of Student Assistance and Wellness at South Brunswick School District (Amy.Finkelstein@sbschools.org).
Background on the fire –
On August 6, 2021, at 5:30 PM, the Monmouth Junction Fire Department was dispatched to the Princeton Orchards Apartments off Ridge Road for a kitchen fire. Police officers along with Monmouth Junction Fire Chief Scott Smith and Deputy Chief Sean Wert arrived to find smoke coming from Building E of the garden apartment-style building. Firefighters encountered heavy fire conditions in Apartment E on the second floor in the center of the building. Due to the volume of fire and the need to search the other units in the building for victims and fire spread, the fire went to a third alarm. A total of 12 fire trucks and over 60 firefighters responded, including firefighters from Monmouth Junction, Kendall Park, Kingston, Jamesburg, Plainsboro, North Brunswick Co. #2, Monroe Fire District #3, and Brookview. Firefighters from East Brunswick District #1, Monroe Fire Co. #1, Montgomery Fire Co. #2, and Little Rocky Hill covered South Brunswick fire stations during the fire and responded to two other incidents, including a truck fire on Route 522.
Ambulances from South Brunswick, North Brunswick and Monroe responded to the scene. One resident and one firefighter were treated at the scene for heat exhaustion.
"Firefighters conducted an aggressive fire attack and were able to contain the fire to the single unit of the 12-unit building", according to Chief Smith. This was a challenging fire for firefighters. We had a large building with a rapidly spreading fire and a dozen apartments to search, plus humid weather that took a toll on the crews. Three other apartments off the same common hallway as the fire apartment suffered smoke and water damage and were all deemed uninhabitable.
South Brunswick Township Fire Safety Bureau determined the cause of the fire to be accidental.
A fire at the Princeton Orchards Apartments last Friday, August 6th heavily damaged multiple apartments leaving 8 school children and their families with a significant loss. The South Brunswick Community Resource Team is collaborating to gather donations to distribute to these families, to help meet their immediate needs for clothing, food, school supplies, and other items.
South Brunswick Manhunt Ends In Capture
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–At 11 a.m. on August 11, 2021 South Brunswick Police responded to the Royal Oaks Apartment Complex off Henderson Road for a dispute. Arriving officers were advised Koddy Hyman age 41 of Franklin Township was a fugitive with outstanding warrants. Hyman was wanted for kidnapping, aggravated assault, and unlawful possession of a weapon for an incident a month earlier. He had outstanding warrants from New Brunswick, Woodbridge, and South Brunswick municipal courts.
Officer Ryan Bartunek and Officer Dan Rodriguez observed Hyman flee into the woods at the intersection of Henderson Road near Blackhorse Lane. Officers set up a perimeter and contacted the New Jersey State Police K9 unite. At 12:45 pm Hyman emerged from the woods and was spotted by Officer Christopher Magee-Vanderveen and PFC Jesse Blake who gave chase. Hyman went under a fence and ran across the northeast corridor Amtrak train lines. He ran into the rear of High Grade Beverage property at 891 Georges Road where Sergeant William Merkler captured him at 1:06 p.m.
Hyman was treated at the scene by EMS for heat exhaustion. He was transported to Middlesex County Correction Center awaiting a bail hearing.
Chief Raymond Hayducka praised the work of all the officers involved. "The officers' quick actions of setting up a perimeter and waiting the suspect out under extremely hot conditions was excellent police work. I want to also thank the NJ State Police for their assistance. This took time and tactics to successfully capture this suspect."
Koddy Hyman, 41, Franklin Township
Ewing, Ewing, Mercer County, Middlesex County, South Brunswick, Woodbridge	 August 11, 2021
Three Individuals Charged In Connection With Remote $450K Access Scam
Scammers were from Sewaren, Middlesex County and Ewing Township Mercer County
Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Chief Dennis McFadden of the Carteret Police Department announce authorities are seeking the public's assistance in the investigation of three individuals who have been arrested and charged for their involvement in a fraud scheme that yielded the seizure of over $450,000.
On April 3, 2021, Saurabh Bhambri, 27, of Sewaren was charged and arrested for Financial Facilitation of Criminal Activity, Theft by Deception, Identity Theft, and Forgery. Poonam Bhambri, 57, of Sewaren was also charged and arrested for Financial Facilitation of Criminal Activity, Identity Theft, and Forgery. Karan Bhambri, 30, of Ewing was also charged with Conspiracy to Commit Financial Facilitation of Criminal Activity.
The individuals were charged following an investigation by the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office – Special Investigations Unit and the Carteret Police Department with assistance of the Edison Police Department and the Homeland Security Investigation – Newark Field Office.
At present, defendants are alleged to have set up and used several IT businesses to persuade victims to give them remote access to their personal computers in order to obtain their personal identifying and banking information.
Below is a list of businesses with which the defendants are affiliated:
SR Business Services – Woodbridge Township
SKR Communications, LLC – Colonia section of Woodbridge Township
Earthlink Networking Services, LLC – Woodbridge Township
Inciti Intermodal, LLC – Sewaren section of Woodbridge Township
Tradex Indous Corporation – Sewaren section of Woodbridge Township
Business Web, LLC – Ewing Township
SK Communications – Ewing Township
Inspired Networking Services, LLC – Dayton section of South Brunswick Township
Shivoham Partnership, LLC – Ewing Township
Delloid, LLC – Sewaren section of Woodbridge Township
The investigation is active and continuing. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Christopher Van Eerde of the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office at (732) 745-3300 or Detective Anthony Ramos of the Carteret Police Department at (732) 541-4181.
As is the case with all criminal defendants, the charges against Saurabh Bhambri, Poonam Bhambri, and Karan Bhambri are merely accusations and they are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Photo by Mikhail Nilov on Pexels.com
Mercer County, Middlesex County, Princeton, South Brunswick	 July 20, 2021
Princeton Woman Killed In South Brunswick Pedestrian Accident On Route 1
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Around 12:40 p.m. South Brunswick Police and EMS responded to US Route 1 near Ridge Road for a pedestrian struck. The victim, a woman in her 30's reportedly from Princeton was rushed to the Trauma Center at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick. She succumbed to her injuries at the hospital a short time later.
The South Brunswick Police Department issued a traffic alert for a partial road closure due to the accident investigation.
The investigation is still active and if anyone has any information they area asked to call South Brunswick Police at (732) 329-4646
No further information is available at this time.
UPDATE – Fatal Crash
At 12:35 pm South Brunswick Police responded to a pedestrian struck on Route 1 south near Ridge Road. The victim a woman in her 30's from Princeton, was taken to @RWJUH in New Brunswick where she died from her injuries.
Any info call (732)329-4646 pic.twitter.com/wkEz2keFJc
— So Brunswick PD (@SoBrunswickPD) July 20, 2021
Middlesex County, South Brunswick	 July 14, 2021 July 14, 2021
South Brunswick Man Rescued In Near Drowning
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–On Saturday, July 10th, at 1:00 p.m., South Brunswick Police received a 911 call from a Green Shadow Lane resident reporting that she found her husband face down and unconscious in their swimming pool. Family members said the 49 year old man went into the backyard to clean their inground pool around 12:15 p.m. At 12:55 pm his wife noticed her husband unresponsive and floating in the deep end of the pool. The wife said both she and her husband were not swimmers. She ran out to the pool and used a pool skimmer to pull her husband to the edge of the pool where she was able to hold his head above water. She yelled for help and a second family member arrived and pulled the victim out of the pool.
Family members called 9-1-1, and the dispatcher was able to provide instructions on performing CPR. Officer Ryan Bartunek and Lieutenant Roger Tuohy arrived at the home within minutes and found the victim on his back outside the pool near a diving board. Both officers began life saving efforts as large amounts of water were coming from the victim's stomach and lungs. South Brunswick EMS and paramedics arrived minutes later and continued efforts. EMS transported the victim to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick. At the hospital the victim began breathing on his own and had regained consciousness.
Police later learned that the victim had been cleaning the swimming pool when he accidentally stepped into a corner of the pool's deep end and fell in. He was not a swimmer and took on water as he yelled for help, eventually going under water.
The victim is recovering at the hospital and hopes to be released today.
Chief Raymond J. Hayducka praised the response by all involved with avoiding a tragedy. "It is clear that the response by family members, officers and EMS prevented a tragedy. Every second counts in near drowning incidents and their efforts made a difference." The Consumer Product Safety Commission that tracks pool safety estimated 6,700 pool-or-spa-related, hospital emergency department-treated, nonfatal drowning injuries each year for 2017 through 2019. This is the equivalent of about 18 every day, 365 days a year.
Middlesex County, Sayreville, South Brunswick	 June 26, 2021 June 26, 2021
LODD: Firefighter Succumbs To Cardiac Arrest During Fire Training at Middlesex Fire Academy
SOUTH BRUNSWICK – KINGSTON, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–It is with deep sadness that we report that Dennis B. Shennard a firefighter of the Kingston Volunteer Fire Company # 1 has succumbed to cardiac arrest during live fire training at the Middlesex County Fire Academy this morning.
South Brunswick OEM Director and Police Chief Raymond Hayducka extends the Township's deepest sympathy to Kingston Volunteer Fire Company #1 Firefighter Dennis B. Shennard family and friends. Shennard died in the line of duty during a drill today.
This evening firefighters and apparatus lined the streets around the hospital as they brought their "brother" home.
Shennard joined the department in 1969 and had given 52 years of dedicated service to the community.
Further details to follow.
See message below from the Kingston Volunteer Fire Company #1:
It is with deep sorrow the Officers and Members of Kingston Volunteer Fire Company #1 mourn the Line Of Duty Death of Firefighter Dennis B. Shennard. FF Shennard succumbed to cardiac arrest during a Live Burn at the Fire Academy while training with fellow Kingston firefighters. FF Shennard joined the fire company in 1969 and during his years of active membership he served as a line officer, executive officer, and was currently serving as a Trustee. As details of services become available, updates will be provided.
Kingston Volunteer Fire Company #1 Firefighter Dennis B. Shennard.
Middlesex County, South Brunswick	 June 4, 2021 June 4, 2021
Dump Truck Crash Closes Route 1 In South Brunswick
Update: 9:02 a.m. all lanes of Route 1 have reopened, it may take some time for traffic to clear.
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–A dump truck crash on Route 1 is causing major delays on the highway and surrounding roads. The crash at 6:10 a.m. on Route 1 at New Road has caused all lanes northbound to be closed and southbound lanes are limited to one lane getting by the crash scene. The crash involves a dump truck that crashed into the concrete center divider. Crews are working to clear the crash and anticipate opening the highway by 9 am.
There is a two-mile delay in both directions on Route 1. There are also delays on Route 522, New Road, and Ridge Road. Drivers should use Route 130 as an alternate.
Photos by: South Brunswick Township
Bordentown Twp, Burlington, Burlington Twp, Carteret, Chesterfield, Cranbury, East Brunswick, East Windsor, East Windsor, Florence, Fort Dix, Hamilton, Hamilton, Mansfield, Mercer County, Middlesex County, New Brunswick, North Brunswick, Old Bridge, Robbinsville, Robbinsville, South Brunswick, State of NJ, Wrightstown	 May 13, 2021 May 13, 2021
Update: Colonial Pipeline Back Online
May 13, 2021 –Updated again at 4:40 p.m.
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–As we reported Saturday on the Colonial Pipeline that runs though New Jersey and supplies gasoline, diesel fuel and aircraft fuel to the eastern part of the country has announced that the entire pipeline should be operational by noon today. There is no need to hoard gasoline or other fuel and disrupt the local supply chain as seen and reported in other parts of the country.
Locally the pipeline runs though Burlington, Mercer County, Middlesex County on its way to Linden, New Jersey and was shut down to a ransomware cyber attack.
System Restart and Operational Update #2
Update: Thursday, May 13, 4:40 p.m.
Colonial Pipeline has continued to make substantial progress in safely restarting our pipeline system. We can now report that we have restarted our entire pipeline system and that product delivery has commenced to all markets we serve.
Following this restart, it will take several days for the product delivery supply chain to return to normal. Some markets served by Colonial Pipeline may experience, or continue to experience, intermittent service interruptions during this start-up period. Colonial will move as much gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel as is safely possible and will continue to do so until markets return to normal.
This would not have been possible without the commitment and dedication of the many Colonial team members across the pipeline who worked safely and tirelessly through the night to get our lines up and running. We are grateful for their dedicated service and professionalism during these extraordinary times.
See update below from the Colonial Pipeline:
Update: Thursday, May 13, 9 a.m.
Colonial Pipeline has made substantial progress in safely restarting our pipeline system and can report that product delivery has commenced in a majority of the markets we service. By mid-day today, we project that each market we service will be receiving product from our system. The green segments on this map are operational, meaning product delivery has commenced. Blue lines will be operational later today.
This would not have been possible without the commitment and dedication of the many Colonial team members across the pipeline who worked safely and tirelessly safely through the night to get our lines up and running. We are grateful for their dedicated service and professionalism during these extraordinary times.
Colonial Pipeline Company, founded in 1962, connects refineries – primarily located in the Gulf Coast – with customers and markets throughout the Southern and Eastern United States through a pipeline system that spans more than 5,500 miles. The company delivers refined petroleum products such as gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, home heating oil, and fuel for the U.S. Military. Colonial is committed to safety and environmental stewardship across its operations.
Colonial Pipeline is the largest refined products pipeline in the United States, transporting more than 100 million gallons or 2.5 million barrels per day. Colonial transports approximately 45 percent of all fuel consumed on the East Coast, providing refined products to more than 50 million Americans.
Specifically, Colonial transports various grades of gasoline, diesel fuel, home heating oil, jet fuel, and fuels for the U.S. military through a pipeline system. The system is connected refineries in the Gulf Coast and in the Northeast. The majority of the system is underground, with tankage and other facilities at key receipt, storage and delivery points.
Related MidJersey.news coverage on Colonial Pipeline incident here:
Colonial Pipeline initiated the restart of pipeline operations today; Several days to return to normal
Colonial Pipeline Works To Restore Service, US FMCSA Issues Emergency Declaration In 18 States To Control Shortages
Update: Colonial Pipeline System Disruption
Cyber Attack Shuts Down Colonial Pipeline
Locally the Colonial Pipeline runs though Burlington, Mercer and Middlesex Counties on the way to Linden, NJ