On Sunday January 26, 2020 at approximately 3:09 AM police were dispatched to Route 37 E near the intersection of Route 166 for reports of a pedestrian struck by a motor vehicle. The 17 year old male victim, from Bayville, was repordedly just leaving work when he attempted to cross Route 37 in a southbound direction. The juvenile was approximately 60โ€™ from the crosswalk when he entered the roadway and was struck by an oncoming vehicle driven by Mark Roma, 46 of Toms River, who was travelling eastbound with a green traffic signal.

Preliminary investigation revealed speed was not a factor in the accident and there were no indications of driver impairment. Witnesses stated at the time the pedestrian entered the roadway there was a no pedestrian crossing signal activated indicating pedestrian traffic could not cross the roadway, it was also stated he was wearing darker clothing. The victim was taken to Community Medical Center where he succumbed to his injuries a short time later.

The incident is being investigated by Toms River Traffic Safety Officer Robert Westfall. Also assisting on scene was OC Sheriff CIU, New Jersey State Police, and the DOT Diversion Team. We would like to thank all responding agencies. Our thoughts are with all involved.