Bergen County Driver Accused of Fleeing Fatal Crash That Killed Elderly Pedestrian in Hackensack
A 38-year-old Bergen County man is facing serious criminal charges after authorities say he fled the scene of a deadly crash that killed a 74-year-old pedestrian in Hackensack early Friday morning.
According to prosecutors, the incident happened around 12:50 a.m. near the intersection of Essex Street and Summit Avenue. Investigators said the victim was crossing the roadway when he was struck by an SUV traveling westbound on Essex Street.
Emergency crews responded to the scene and transported the injured pedestrian to Hackensack University Medical Center. Despite medical efforts, the man later died from his injuries. Officials have not yet publicly identified the victim while family notifications continue.
Authorities allege that the driver did not stop after the collision and left the area without providing help or contacting emergency services. Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella said investigators later identified the vehicle involved and located the SUV later the same day.
The driver, identified as 38-year-old Terrence J. Hedden of Bergenfield, was taken into custody following the investigation. Prosecutors charged him with second-degree knowingly leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death, along with third-degree endangering an injured victim and several motor vehicle violations.
Officials said Hedden was being held at the Bergen County Jail pending a court appearance. Information regarding legal representation was not immediately available.
The fatal crash remains under investigation by local authorities and the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office. Investigators continue reviewing the circumstances surrounding the collision and the events that followed after the pedestrian was struck.
Hit-and-run crashes involving pedestrians continue to raise public safety concerns across New Jersey, especially during overnight hours when visibility can be reduced. Law enforcement agencies regularly remind drivers that state law requires motorists involved in a crash to stop immediately, remain at the scene, and provide assistance to injured individuals until emergency responders arrive.
Sources:
Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office
Hackensack Police Department
