Driver killed in wrong-way crash on N.J. highway
A 24-year-old man lost his life after a wrong-way crash involving a pickup truck and a tractor-trailer on Route 55 in Gloucester County, New Jersey, late Monday night, according to authorities.
The fatal crash happened at around 10:30 p.m. near milepost 52 in Mantua Township. New Jersey State Police said the pickup truck was traveling north in the southbound lanes of Route 55 when it collided head-on with an approaching tractor-trailer.
Officials identified the pickup truck driver as Favian Cruz, 24, of Bridgeton. He suffered fatal injuries in the collision and was pronounced dead following the crash.
The driver of the tractor-trailer survived the impact but sustained minor injuries. Authorities said the truck driver was transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.
Investigators said the crash occurred after the pickup truck entered the highway and traveled in the wrong direction before striking the tractor-trailer. At this time, officials have not released additional details about what caused the vehicle to travel the wrong way.
Wrong-way crashes are among the most dangerous types of traffic collisions because they often result in high-speed, head-on impacts. Law enforcement agencies continue to investigate such incidents to determine the circumstances that lead to these deadly crashes and to improve roadway safety.
The investigation into Monday night’s fatal collision remains ongoing. New Jersey State Police have not announced whether any additional information will be released as the investigation continues.
Sources
- New Jersey State Police (Official)
- New Jersey Department of Transportation (Official)
