Driver Killed In 5-Vehicle Chain-Reaction Crash On NJ Turnpike In East Windsor

EAST WINDSOR, NJ - A pickup truck driver was killed Thursday morning following a chain reaction crash that involved five vehicles, New Jersey State Police said.

Troopers responded to a multi-vehicle collision Thursday morning on the southbound New Jersey Turnpike in East Windsor. The crash occurred at 10:32 a.m. near milepost 68.2 on the outer roadway.

According to preliminary investigation, a Freightliner tractor-trailer, a Ford F-150 pickup truck, Kenworth semi-trailer, Ford van, and Mercedes-Benz passenger car were traveling southbound. The Kenworth semi struck the rear of the Ford F-150, then collided with the Mercedes-Benz.

The impact caused the F-150 to rear-end the Freightliner ahead of it. During the collision sequence, a wheel separated from the F-150 and struck the Ford van. The F-150 burst into flames following the crash, NJSP said.

The F-150 driver died from injuries sustained in the collision. Two other drivers—those of the Ford van and Mercedes-Benz—suffered minor injuries. Authorities are withholding the deceased driver's identity pending family notification.

The investigation is ongoing, and no further details are currently available.

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