Woman Killed In Crash On Route 72 On Friday: Stafford Police

STAFFORD TOWNSHIP, NJ A Ship Bottom woman was killed today in a multiple vehicle crash on Route 72 near Marsha Drive, Stafford Township police said.

The preliminary investigation showed that the accident occurred at 9:50 a.m., when a 2013 Ford Focus driven by Barbara Angeline, 73, was traveling west on Route 72 and apparently went through a red light. Her car struck a 2017 Jeep Cherokee operated by Richard Labarbiera Jr, 22, Paramus, who was traveling north on Marsha Drive, crossing over Route 72, police said.

Angeline's vehicle then struck a 2009 Chrysler van operated by Susan Destefanis, 61, of Manahawkin, who was also traveling north on Marsha Drive crossing Route 72. Angeline's vehicle came to rest after striking two other vehicles waiting at a red traffic signal to travel south on the opposite side of Marsha Drive.

Angeline was severely injured and was airlifted to Jersey Shore University Medical Center. Angeline's passenger Johannah Griffin, 91, Ship Bottom, died from her injuries. Destefanis was taken by PennStar medivac to Atlantic City Trauma Center.

The other drivers suffered minor injuries and were transported to South Ocean Medical Center for treatment.

The preliminary investigation showed that Angeline went through at red light on Route 72, the police report states.The right lane of Route 72 west was closed during the investigation

Patrolman Justin Pascale is the investigating officer. He was assisted by Patrolmen Allen Jillson, Mike Morrin and Rob Woodring.

Any witnesses are asked to contact 609-597-1189 ext. 8436.

The Stafford Fire Department, Stafford EMS, Quality EMS, Great Bay EMS, Surf City EMS, Barnegat Light EMS, MONOC paramedics, and State Incident Management Response Team all assisted.

Photo: Stafford Township Police Department