Emergency crews responded Thursday morning to a serious traffic collision on the Driscoll Bridge, one of New Jersey’s busiest highway crossings, causing extensive delays and raising concerns of a possible fatality. The crash occurred on the Garden State Parkway, affecting both northbound and southbound traffic lanes and prompting a swift and large-scale emergency response.
According to early reports, the incident occurred just after 7:30 a.m., during peak rush hour traffic, leading to a significant backup stretching for miles in both directions. Multiple vehicles were involved in the crash, which took place near the crest of the bridge, a key juncture connecting Middlesex and Monmouth counties. Witnesses described a chaotic scene with mangled vehicles and debris scattered across multiple lanes.
State Police and emergency medical teams quickly arrived at the scene, along with local fire departments and tow crews. While full details have yet to be confirmed, sources on-site have indicated that at least one person may have died as a result of the crash, though this information remains under investigation. Several others are believed to have sustained injuries ranging from minor to serious.
The New Jersey State Police have closed several lanes in both directions to allow emergency crews to work safely. As of the latest update, only one lane is open in each direction, leading to major delays and significant detours for commuters and commercial vehicles alike.
Motorists are being advised to avoid the area entirely and seek alternative routes, including Routes 9, 18, or 35, if possible. Transit officials are urging patience and caution, noting that cleanup and investigation efforts may take several hours due to the severity of the wreck and the need for accident reconstruction.
A spokesperson for the NJ Turnpike Authority issued a brief statement:
“Emergency responders are actively working the scene of a serious motor vehicle accident on the Driscoll Bridge. Traffic is severely impacted in both directions. We ask drivers to use caution, follow posted detours, and remain alert for first responders on foot.”
Authorities have not yet released the names of any individuals involved in the crash, and next of kin are reportedly still being notified. The New Jersey State Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction (CARS) Unit is leading the investigation.
The Driscoll Bridge, which spans the Raritan River and is a critical connector on the Garden State Parkway, sees hundreds of thousands of vehicles daily. Major incidents like today’s crash highlight the importance of driver awareness and infrastructure preparedness on such heavily traveled roadways.
More information is expected to be released as investigators complete their initial assessments and interviews with witnesses. The public is encouraged to stay tuned to local news stations and NJ511 traffic updates for real-time information on closures, delays, and detours.
As emergency responders continue their tireless work on the scene, thoughts remain with all those affected by this tragic incident.
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