Linden police officers recovering after highway crash — Linden Police Department - Stock photo.

LINDEN, NJ — Two officers from the New Providence Police Department have been discharged from the hospital and are now recovering at home following a multi-vehicle crash. The incident occurred on August 9, 2024, around 5:01 PM on Interstate 78 near mile marker 43.

During a routine traffic stop involving a Mercedes Benz, a westbound Honda Odyssey struck the rear of one of the New Providence patrol vehicles.

This collision initiated a chain reaction, impacting another police vehicle and the Mercedes Benz that was initially stopped. Emergency lights were activated at the time of the accident.

Both police officers involved sustained injuries and were transported to Morristown Memorial Hospital in stable condition. The driver of the Honda Odyssey also suffered injuries and received medical attention at the same hospital.

The occupants of the Mercedes Benz were evaluated by emergency medical services at the scene and subsequently released.

The response to the crash included multiple agencies: Berkeley Heights Fire Department, New Providence Fire Department, Union County Fire Command, Berkeley Heights EMS, Union County EMS, and Atlantic Paramedics.

Law enforcement support was provided by the New Jersey State Police, Berkeley Heights Police Department, Summit Police Department, and the New Jersey Department of Transportation.

The New Jersey State Police are leading the investigation into the circumstances of the crash. The community extends its best wishes to the officers for a full and speedy recovery.

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