Prosecutors say a 19-year-old driver crossed the centerline on Finderne Avenue and struck another vehicle head-on, resulting in the death of a Piscataway resident and injuries to three passengers.
BRIDGEWATER, N.J. — A Bridgewater teenager has been charged with vehicular homicide and assault offenses following a head-on collision that killed a Piscataway man and injured three others earlier this month.
Somerset County Prosecutor John P. McDonald, Acting Chief of County Detectives Meredith McKay, and Bridgewater Township Police Chief John B. Mitzak announced the arrest of Dylan A. Baez, 19, of Bridgewater, in connection with the June 13 crash on Finderne Avenue.
Police were called to the area of Finderne Avenue and Van Veghten Drive at approximately 9:41 p.m. for reports of a serious two-vehicle collision.
Driver dies after crash
Responding officers found a Honda and a Kia that had been involved in a head-on crash.
Authorities said Baez, who was driving the Honda, was transported to a regional trauma center for treatment of injuries sustained in the collision.
The driver of the Kia, Joel R. Dominguez-Cruz of Piscataway, suffered critical injuries and was taken to a local trauma hospital. Prosecutors said he later died from injuries sustained in the crash.
Three passengers riding in the Kia — including a front-seat passenger and two rear-seat passengers — were also taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Investigators say Honda crossed centerline
Members of the Somerset County Collision Analysis Reconstruction Team, Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit, and Bridgewater Police Department Traffic Safety Unit responded to investigate.
According to prosecutors, investigators determined through roadway evidence that the Honda was traveling northbound when it crossed over the centerline into the southbound lane.
The Honda then struck the Kia head-on.
Officials said the investigation remains ongoing as members of the Collision Analysis Reconstruction Team continue to analyze evidence and complete their findings.
Multiple criminal charges filed
On June 17, prosecutors charged Baez with first-degree vehicular homicide, second-degree assault by auto, and two counts of third-degree assault by auto.
Authorities said Baez was served with the criminal complaints by officers from the Bridgewater Township Police Department.
Upon his release from the hospital, prosecutors said Baez will be lodged in the Somerset County Jail pending a detention hearing.
Investigators are continuing to seek information related to the fatal crash.