On October 31 at approximately 8:45 PM, during the annual Toms River Halloween Parade, Harold Oswald, 80 year old from Willow Grove, PA, was operating a miniature gas powered cart along the parade route. While performing various maneuvers in the roadway, Mr. Oswald lost control of the cart, causing it to tip.  He was thrown from the cart, striking his head on the pavement. Mr. Oswald was transported to Jersey Shore Medical Center with a skull fracture and is listed as critical but stable condition. It was also discovered that Mr. Oswald was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, nor was the cart equipped with safety belts.

Due to the popularity of this annual event, it is believed that some parade-goers may have possession of a video of the incident which would aid in determining the cause of the crash. If any residents have video of the accident, please forward to Ptl. Gambardella at [email protected].

The media and the public are reminded that criminal charges are accusations only.  Every criminal defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.