Newark, NJ – A quiet Monday evening turned into a scene of devastating tragedy after a hit-and-run crash outside George Washington Carver Elementary School claimed the life of 28-year-old Eryn Montgomery and left another woman seriously injured. The incident, which unfolded just after 9 p.m. on July 28, 2025, has sent shockwaves through the Newark community and sparked calls for justice and safer streets.
According to the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, the collision involved a 2014 white Ford Econoline van driven by Segundo Carlos Bunay, 33, of Newark. The van struck Montgomery and 40-year-old Kieonna Jones as they were walking near the school. Rather than stopping to help, authorities say Bunay fled the scene, leaving the two women critically injured on the roadside.
Emergency responders arrived quickly, and both women were transported to University Hospital. Sadly, Eryn Montgomery was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Her friend, Kieonna Jones, remains hospitalized in stable condition, recovering from serious injuries sustained in the crash.
Authorities confirmed that Bunay eventually returned to the crash site, where he was taken into custody. Investigators determined that he was under the influence at the time of the incident, and court documents indicate that the crash occurred within a school zone, adding gravity to the charges.
Multiple Charges Filed Against Driver
The prosecutor’s office has filed a litany of charges against Bunay, including:
- First-degree vehicular homicide while driving under the influence in a school zone
- Second-degree reckless vehicular homicide
- Second-degree leaving the scene of a fatal crash
- Second-degree assault by auto while under the influence in a school zone
- Third-degree leaving the scene of a crash resulting in serious bodily injury
- Two counts of third-degree endangering an injured victim
The severity of these charges reflects both the recklessness of the driver’s behavior and the location of the incident — just steps away from a school that serves hundreds of children and families in the area.
Remembering Eryn Montgomery
Eryn Montgomery’s death has left her family and friends grappling with unimaginable grief. Described by loved ones as caring, spirited, and endlessly supportive, Eryn was known for her kindness, her close ties to family, and her love for community service.
“She was the kind of person who showed up — for birthdays, for tough days, for everything,” said one friend. “To know her was to know loyalty and love. Losing her like this is just unfathomable.”
Eryn worked in the local nonprofit sector and had a passion for helping underserved youth. Those who knew her say it’s painfully ironic that her life was cut short outside a school — a place she believed should always be safe and nurturing.
In the wake of her death, a makeshift memorial has appeared outside George Washington Carver Elementary School, with candles, flowers, and handwritten notes placed beneath a tree near the crash site. Neighbors and students have gathered to pay respects, and a candlelight vigil is being organized for later this week.
Community Response and Call for Accountability
The tragedy has reignited conversations about pedestrian safety and drunk driving enforcement, particularly in school zones, where stricter standards and harsher penalties are in place for a reason.
“This was not an accident — this was negligence. This was avoidable,” said a local advocate for street safety. “We need more enforcement, more visibility in these zones, and stricter consequences for those who disregard the safety of our communities.”
Officials urge anyone with additional information about the crash to contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office tips line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC or 1-877-847-7432. Investigators continue to gather surveillance footage and eyewitness statements to piece together the full sequence of events.
Honoring Eryn’s Legacy
As the community begins to grieve the loss of Eryn Montgomery, plans are underway to honor her life and legacy. Friends have begun organizing a fundraiser to support her family with funeral expenses and to potentially launch a scholarship in her name for local youth — a tribute that aligns perfectly with the values Eryn held close.
Her death is not just a reminder of the fragility of life, but of the urgent need for responsibility, awareness, and change on our roads. Newark has lost a bright light, and her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her.
Rest in peace, Eryn. Your kindness, strength, and light will not be forgotten.
Leave a Reply