Head-On Crash Leaves Four Injured on Route 70 as Detectives Probe Driver Impairment
MANCHESTER TOWNSHIP, NJ — A dangerous passing maneuver on Route 70 triggered a head-on collision Friday evening that sent four people to the hospital and prompted an ongoing investigation into possible alcohol involvement, authorities said.
The crash happened around 7:50 p.m. Friday near mile marker 34 on Route 70 in Manchester Township, according to Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer.
Investigators said a 2025 Ford Ranger traveling eastbound attempted to pass another vehicle by moving into the westbound lane “in an unsafe manner.” At the same time, a 2022 Hyundai Elantra carrying a driver and two passengers was traveling westbound when the pickup truck entered its lane, causing a head-on collision.
Emergency crews transported all four occupants involved in the crash to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune. Authorities said all victims were listed in stable condition as of Saturday.
Investigators Probe Possible Alcohol Involvement
Responding officers at the crash scene reportedly detected the odor of alcohol coming from the driver of the Ford Ranger and also observed an open container of alcohol inside the vehicle, prosecutors said.
As part of the investigation, authorities obtained a court-authorized blood draw from the Ford Ranger driver while he was being treated at the hospital.
Officials have not released the identities or ages of the people involved, and no charges had been announced as of Saturday.
The crash investigation is being handled by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Vehicular Homicide Squad, the Manchester Township Police Department, and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit.
Key Points
• A head-on crash on Route 70 injured four people in Manchester Township
• Investigators said a Ford Ranger crossed into oncoming traffic while attempting to pass another vehicle
• Police reported signs of possible alcohol involvement and obtained a blood sample from the driver
