Crime & Safety
Driver Charged with Assault by Auto in Ridge Road Crash
Three people seriously injured in collision on July 8.
A Somerset man is facing assault charges after a crash on Ridge Road last month that caused serious injuries.
Kevin Cabrera, 24, was charged with assault by auto, reckless driving, careless driving, and failure to maintain a lane for a crash that occurred in front of Indian Fields Elementary School on July 8.
Police said Cabrera was driving a 2001 Jeep west on Ridge Road when he crossed over the double yellow line and struck a 2008 Hyundai that was traveling in the opposite direction. Cabrera and his passenger, Joseph Perdun, 22, of Milltown were both seriously injured in the crash.
The driver of the Hyundai, Justin Ratajczik, 34, of Jamesburg, also suffered injuries in the collision.
South Brunswick Traffic Safety Bureau Officer Frank Mongalieri determined that there were no mechanical issues with the Jeep prior to the accident. Police said Cabrera had been driving "recklessly and negligently" at the time of the crash.
The Monmouth Junction Fire Department was called to extricate Cabrera and Perdun from the Jeep using the Jaws of Life. Perdun was hospitalized for five days as a result of his injuries, according to police.
Cabrera is scheduled for an Aug. 6 court appearance.
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