SOUTH TOMS RIVER, NJ – A 41-year-old man is facing vehicular homicide and multiple related charges in connection with a June crash that killed a woman in South Toms River, according to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office.

Around 3:50 a.m. on June 7, officers responded to Colgate Drive where 57-year-old Marie Bellavista was found dead in the roadway. Investigators determined that Tremel Haskins was driving the cab of a Volvo semi-truck when he struck Bellavista and fled. Haskins was later found at a Walmart parking lot on Route 37 and initially charged with several motor vehicle offenses, including driving while intoxicated. A court-authorized blood draw revealed an active THC level indicating recent marijuana use.

A search of Haskins’ truck also uncovered a loaded .38 caliber revolver. With two prior drug distribution convictions, Haskins was charged in June with unlawful possession of a weapon and as a certain person not to possess a firearm.

A warrant for his arrest was issued July 31, and Haskins was taken into custody August 11 by the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office. He remains in the Ocean County Jail pending a detention hearing.

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Key Points

Tremel Haskins charged with vehicular homicide in death of Marie Bellavista
Blood test showed active THC levels at time of crash
Loaded revolver found in truck, leading to additional weapons charges

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Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

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Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News