Toms River Man Accused of Fleeing Wrong-Way Crash and Injuring Police K-9 in Ocean County
A New Jersey man is facing multiple criminal charges after authorities say he drove the wrong way on a roadway in Toms River, crashed into another vehicle, and later assaulted a police dog while trying to escape officers.
According to prosecutors, the incident happened around 8:30 p.m. Monday near the intersection of Route 37 and Batchelor Street in Ocean County. Investigators said a pickup truck driven by 30-year-old Andrew N. Gajewski was traveling in the wrong direction before colliding with an SUV.
The crash left several people injured and triggered a large police response in the area. Authorities said the driver of the SUV suffered serious injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital, where the person remains in stable condition. Officials also confirmed that a passenger inside the SUV and a passenger traveling in Gajewski’s truck were treated at a hospital and later released.
After the collision, prosecutors said Gajewski allegedly ran away from the scene and entered a wooded area nearby in an attempt to avoid police. During the search, authorities said he assaulted a police K-9 involved in the pursuit.
Investigators also stated that Gajewski showed signs of impairment following the crash. Toxicology test results are still pending as the investigation continues.
The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office announced that Gajewski has been charged with leaving the scene of a motor vehicle crash resulting in serious bodily injury, three counts of assault by auto, resisting arrest, and injuring an animal used by a law enforcement agency.
In addition to the criminal charges, police issued several traffic summonses, including reckless driving and careless driving violations.
Officials said Gajewski remains hospitalized at this time. Once released from medical care, he is expected to be transferred to the Ocean County Jail.
Authorities have not released any attorney information connected to the case. The investigation remains ongoing as prosecutors await additional test results related to the incident.
Sources:
Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office
Toms River Police Department
