JACKSON TOWNSHIP, NJ – Two people were killed early Saturday morning when a vehicle veered off the road, struck a tree, and erupted into flames in Jackson Township, authorities said.
The crash occurred around 12:08 a.m. on February 15, when police first received a report of a transformer down in the roadway. Moments later, additional 911 calls came in reporting a serious motor vehicle crash in the same area. Responding officers arrived to find a black 2023 Toyota Highlander fully engulfed in flames after colliding with a tree off the roadway.
Officers attempted to reach the two occupants trapped inside, but intense fire conditions prevented rescue efforts. Once firefighters extinguished the blaze, both victims were pronounced dead at the scene. Their identities have not yet been confirmed pending notification of next of kin.
Police investigating cause of fiery crash
The Jackson Police Traffic Safety Unit is investigating the crash to determine what caused the vehicle to leave the roadway. Investigators have not released information about whether speed, weather, or other factors played a role in the deadly incident.
Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage to contact Police Officer Matthew Kalbach at 732-928-1111.
Developing now, Deadly crash flips Prince George’s County school bus onto its side in Accokeek.
- Two people killed after SUV struck tree and caught fire
- Officers attempted rescue but were unable to reach victims
- Jackson Police continuing investigation into cause of crash
The Jackson Township Police Department said the investigation remains active as they work to identify the victims and reconstruct the events leading up to the fatal crash.
Also happening in Jackson
- Former Farm-Zoned Property in Jackson Set to Become Massive Warehouse Complex
- Lakewood’s Kars4Kids Banned in California Because it Only Benefits Jewish Children in New Jersey
- Lakewood Surges Past Elizabeth as New Jersey’s 4th Largest Town, Fueling Traffic and Growth Fears
- Man Accused of Smashing Into Ocean County Convenience Store Arrested Sleeping in Car in Cherry Hill
- Some Children Left Behind: New Jersey Lawmakers Intentionally Shortchanging School Districts Because of Political Affiliation
- Jackson Budget Vote Sparks Employee Fears After Council Deadlock Nearly Jeopardized Benefits and Payroll
gavel stock photo - Blockbuster Tops List of Defunct Brands New Jersey Residents Want Back Most
- Lakewood man arrested in serial synagogue burglary investigation
handcuff - Federal Judge Dismisses New Jersey Mother’s Lawsuit Over Removal of Children
- Walmart Facing Hiring Discrimination Class Action Lawsuit in New Jersey
Here’s what’s happening, Teen arrested after unarmed carjacking in Northeast DC.