Ridgewood Crash: SUV Smashes Historic Shed, Driver Flees Scene

An SUV smashed into a century-old shed on a peaceful Sunday morning, prompting Ridgewood police to investigate. The driver fled, leaving a heavily damaged automobile.

While speeding down Route 17 North exit road, the SUV crashed before 7:30 a.m. The antique shed may have been there from the early 1900s. Police claimed the car drove off the curb, crossed East Glen Avenue, and hit it. The collision wrecked the entire building and scattered rubble, shocking everyone.

Police found the electric Jeep Wrangler they suspected of the crime parked at a property on East Saddle River Road. The rental SUV was heavily damaged in the accident. The owner of the car was missing. Police later notified the 39-year-old Californian who hired the car he had 13 traffic violations.

After the incident, police searched for the suspect extensively. The New Jersey State Police Aviation Unit, Oradell Police Drone Unit, and Bergen County Sheriff’s K-9 Unit assisted. The driver escaped after many searches in adjacent neighborhoods and natural areas.

Police from various departments assisted with the investigation. Ho-Ho-Kus, Paramus, Oradell, and Glen Rock police assisted. They showed how terrible the problem was, not only because of property damage but also because drivers leaving their cars after incidents are risky for everyone.

Residents were alarmed by the crash because they believed the shed was essential to Ridgewood’s heritage. Some local residents were upset that the ancient structure had to disappear because it had been part of the borough’s history for so long.

Police are investigating what the driver did and haven’t decided if they’ll charge them with anything other than driving offenses. Catching the perpetrator and making him pay for his damage is the top priority.

Sources

Ridgewood Police Department
Bergen County Sheriff’s Office
New Jersey State Police