CAMDEN, NJ – Police in Camden County have announced an arrest in the death of 76-year-old Frank Yerka in Pine Hill that occurred on May 6th when he was struck by a vehicle driven by Darius Wade, 28, of Pine Hill.
Wade was charged with death by auto.
“On May 6, 2022, at approximately 12:02 a.m. the Pine Hill Police Department, Pine Hill Fire Department, and EMS personnel, were dispatched to the 200 block of East 11th Avenue for a pedestrian versus motor vehicle crash,” police reported. “Upon arrival, an unconscious pedestrian was located in the roadway, along with an overturned vehicle. The pedestrian was identified as 76-year-old Frank Yerka of Pine Hill.“
Police said Yerka was walking his dog eastbound on 11th Ave on the westbound side of the road when a vehicle driven by Wade was traveling eastbound.
Wade then drove his vehicle into the westbound side of the road and struck Yerka. Police rendered aid to Yerka until EMS arrived on location and he was then transported to Cooper Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries at 6:15 a.m.
“Through a subsequent investigation, it was determined Wade was driving under the influence at the time of the crash. After the Crash Investigation Response Team reviewed the findings of the investigation, Wade was formally charged on June 2. This investigation is active and ongoing,” police reported.