Woman Wins $1M, New Shops: Top Barnegat-Manahawkin Stories Of 2024

BARNEGAT-MANAHAWKIN, NJ — It was a busy year in Barnegat and Manahawkin, and a lot happened. From a local woman winning $1 million, to new restaurants being opened, to plans for a bigger ShopRite, we went through a lot.

As 2024 comes to a close, Patch has rounded up some of the year's most-read articles. Click the headlines to read the full stories.

'Just In Shock': Barnegat Woman Hits $1M Lottery Win

Stacey Fiore's weekly lottery ticket purchases finally paid off in a big way. The Barnegat resident won $1 million after a lifetime of playing the Powerball and MegaMillions, according to a New Jersey Lottery news release.

Saker Files Plans For Renovations At Former Manahawkin Kmart

Saker Properties filed an application with the Stafford Township Planning Board for renovations of Manahawkin Commons, a plaza with several vacant storefronts, which the corporation purchased in late December.

'Gut Feeling' Had Barnegat Toll Worker Call Out Before Crash

A "gut feeling" may have saved a toll booth worker ahead of a violent crash on the Garden State Parkway. Jessica Daley was scheduled to work at the Barnegat Toll Plaza that day, but had a "really bad gut feeling" that something was going to happen.

NJ Dad Sentenced In Treadmill Abuse Death Of Young Son

The Barnegat father found guilty of aggravated manslaughter in connection with the death of his six-year-old son in 2021 was sentenced to 25 years in prison.

After Near Fatal Heart Attack, NJ Man Celebrates Daughter's Wedding

A "widowmaker" heart attack nearly killed John Donza. Months later, he was able to officiate his oldest daughter's wedding.