State reports double-digit decline in deaths, while local spike drives targeted police response
Jackson Township, NJ — Fatal crashes declined significantly across New Jersey in 2025, but a rise in deadly and high-severity crashes in Jackson Township has raised local concerns and prompted increased enforcement efforts.
Preliminary state data shows traffic fatalities dropped by about 15% in 2025, while Jackson Township recorded a series of fatal and serious crashes into early 2026, according to local and state officials.
Statewide fatalities see sharp decline
The New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety reported fatal crashes fell from 647 in 2024 to 547 in 2025, while total deaths dropped from 684 to 582.
Pedestrian fatalities declined by nearly 24%, and motorcyclist deaths saw a steep 40% decrease from 2024 levels. Officials credited targeted enforcement, public education, and infrastructure improvements for the statewide progress.
Attorney General Matthew Platkin called the decline “a clear step in the right direction,” while noting continued efforts are needed to reduce fatalities further.
Jackson Township sees opposite trend
Despite the statewide improvements, Ocean County — including Jackson Township — was among the areas that experienced an increase in fatalities.
Jackson reported 11 fatal crashes in 2025 out of 1,629 total crashes, along with 29 incidents involving serious bodily injury.
Into early 2026, several high-profile crashes have already occurred, including a deadly February incident on Hyson Road involving a vehicle fire and another mid-February crash where a vehicle struck a tree.
Key Points
• New Jersey traffic deaths dropped about 15% in 2025
• Jackson Township recorded 11 fatal crashes and rising incidents into 2026
• Police increasing enforcement in response to local spike
Enforcement increases amid safety concerns
In response, Jackson Township police have expanded traffic enforcement efforts through a grant-funded initiative running from April through September.
The program, known locally as the Crash Abatement and Tactics (C.A.T.) grant, targets common causes of serious crashes, including speeding, distracted driving, red-light violations, impaired driving, and failure to yield.
Officers are being deployed to high-risk areas throughout the township, with a focus on both enforcement and driver education. Some people will receive tickets. Some people will receive educational training.
Broader safety efforts continue
State officials noted that more than $20 million was distributed in 2025 to support traffic safety initiatives across New Jersey, contributing to the overall decline in fatalities.
National data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration also showed an 8% decline in roadway deaths during the first half of 2025, with New Jersey among the states seeing improvement.
Ongoing safety outlook
While statewide trends are improving, local officials say the recent spike in serious crashes in Jackson Township highlights the need for continued enforcement and public awareness as efforts continue into 2026.