Fatal Motorcycle Crash Thought To Cause Wildfire Off NJ Highway

PARSIPPANY, NJ — A fatal, multi-vehicle collision is thought to have caused a wildfire off of I-80 on Tuesday, according to officials.

At around 1:10 p.m., police responded to a motor vehicle accident involving a motorcyclist on I-80 near mile marker 41.6 in Parsippany-Troy Hills Township.

Officials said that a Dodge truck was towing a Chevrolet Suburban when a Yamaha motorcycle slammed into the Chevrolet's rear.

The collision caused all three vehicles to ignite, and the fires spread to a nearby wooded area, according to state police.

The motorcyclist, who has yet to be identified, was pronounced dead following the crash, police said.

Shortly after, a wildfire was reported in the same area just off the highway.

According to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service (NJFFS), responders were able to fight off the fire, and the blaze was contained shortly after it was reported.

The wildfire closed all westbound lanes of traffic for around an hour. According to officials, two lanes opened back up around 2:40 p.m.

“Smoke is expected to remain visible in the area for an extended period as firefighters continue mop-up operations,” NJFFS stated Tuesday afternoon. “Motorists are urged to drive with caution, remain alert for reduced visibility, and watch for emergency personnel and vehicles operating along the roadway.”