READINGTON TWP., NJ – A New York man has been charged in connection with a fatal roadside crash that killed a Louisiana pedestrian along Interstate 78 last week, authorities announced Tuesday.
Antoni E. Xicay Mazariegos, 24, of Nanuet, is accused of striking and killing 57-year-old Marshall J. Vizinat of Baton Rouge while driving under the influence, then fleeing the scene.
The fatal crash occurred September 29 in the westbound lanes of Interstate 78 in Readington Township, according to Hunterdon County Prosecutor Renée M. Robeson.
Troopers and an off-duty EMT found Vizinat lying along the roadside after being struck while standing outside his vehicle. He was taken to Hunterdon Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead.
Driver allegedly fled scene while intoxicated
Investigators determined Mazariegos was operating a pickup truck towing a trailer that struck the victim before he continued driving westbound. He allegedly failed to stop, later exiting the highway in Tewksbury Township, where he collided with another vehicle.
State police arrested Mazariegos a short time later, charging him with second-degree death by auto, second-degree leaving the scene of a fatal crash, and third-degree strict liability vehicular homicide.
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Prosecutor outlines penalties
If convicted, Mazariegos faces up to ten years in prison and fines reaching $150,000 on the most serious counts. He has been released on pretrial monitoring conditions following his first court appearance and is currently represented by attorney Herminia Moreira.
The case is being prosecuted by First Assistant Prosecutor Joseph Paravecchia, officials said.