TOMS RIVER, NJ -It was like Murphy’s Law on Tuesday for a Toms River resident who had a “Wreck it Ralph” moment while driving. The good news is he didn’t kill anyone or hurt anyone doing it.
On Tuesday, January 19th, 2021, at approximately 4:00 PM police units were dispatched to Route 37 eastbound, near the GSP South entrance ramp for reports of a motor vehicle accident and downed pole. Avery Murch, 25 of Weare NH, and Thomas Holl, 32 of Toms River, were both traveling south on the Garden State Parkway at the intersection of Route 37.
Mr. Holl had entered the right lane to access the exit ramp as Mr. Murch, who was driving to the left of Mr. Holl, also attempted to access the right exit lane. In the process, Mr. Murch’s vehicle sideswiped Mr. Holl’s vehicle and then continued onto the exit ramp.
After reaching Route 37 W eastbound, Mr. Murch’s vehicle exited the roadway to the right and struck a curb, then continued off road and struck a street sign and a utility pole. Mr. Murch attempted to flee east on Route 37 but subsequently hit a cement wall under the overpass, causing his vehicle to become totally disabled.
Mr. Murch was exhibiting signs of impairment and was arrested and charged with DWI, and his vehicle was impounded as per John’s Law. Mr. Murch was charged with Driving Under the Influence, Reckless Driving, Revoked Driver’s License, Failure to Report an Accident, Leaving the Scene of Property Damage, and Operating with Drugs in the Vehicle.
The accident is being investigated by Toms River Traffic Safety Officer Robert Westfall.
The media and the public are reminded that criminal charges are accusations only. Every criminal defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.