WESTFIELD, NJ – August 4, 2025 — A devastating multi-vehicle crash on Westfield’s W. North Avenue claimed the life of 71-year-old Edward “Ed” Russo, a Kenilworth resident and beloved community member. The crash has led to the arrest of 20-year-old Anthony Ramirez Velazquez, a Perth Amboy man now facing several serious criminal charges, including Death by Auto.
According to Westfield Police Chief Christopher Battiloro, the collision occurred at approximately 9:54 AM in the 1000 block of W. North Avenue, prompting an immediate response from first responders.
Investigators report that Anthony Ramirez Velazquez was driving a 2016 Acura IDX eastbound on W. North Avenue when he veered into oncoming traffic and collided with a 2022 Ford Transit van traveling westbound. The force of the crash overturned the van, which then struck Mr. Russo, who was riding his bicycle westbound on the side of the road.
Despite rapid intervention by a Union County Police officer, along with Westfield Police officers and Union County EMS, Edward Russo succumbed to his injuries. Paramedics from Atlantic Health System pronounced him dead at the scene.
Fortunately, the driver and passengers of the Ford Transit van did not suffer any injuries.
Driver Faces Multiple Criminal Charges
Anthony Ramirez Velazquez was arrested at the scene on suspicion of Driving Under the Influence. After a thorough investigation led by the Westfield Police Department’s Traffic Safety and Detective Bureaus, with assistance from the Union County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide Task Force, Velazquez was formally charged with:
- Death by Auto (2C:11-5b(1)), a Second-Degree Crime
- Assault by Auto (2C:12-1c(2)), a Third-Degree Crime
- Assault by Auto (2C:12-1c(1)), a Fourth-Degree Crime
He was processed at the Westfield Police Department and transferred to Essex County Jail where he awaits further legal proceedings.
Support and Resources Deployed
Multiple agencies, including the Westfield Fire Department, Union County Police Crash Analysis Unit, and Union County Sheriff’s Crime Scene Unit, responded to the incident, securing the crash site for investigation and cleanup.
Officials remind the public that these charges are only allegations, and Velazquez is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Potential Legal Consequences
If convicted, Velazquez could face:
- 5 to 10 years in prison and up to $150,000 in fines for the second-degree Death by Auto charge
- 3 to 5 years in prison and up to $15,000 in fines for the third-degree Assault by Auto charge
- Up to 18 months in prison and $10,000 in fines for the fourth-degree Assault by Auto charge
Final sentencing will be determined by a Superior Court judge.
Remembering Edward Russo
The victim, Edward Russo, 71, of Kenilworth, is remembered by friends and neighbors as a gentle, active man who enjoyed his morning bike rides and contributed quietly to his community. He leaves behind a grieving family and community that mourns his sudden and tragic loss.
“This should never have happened,” said one resident. “Ed was a kind soul. Always smiling, always active. He didn’t deserve to be taken from us like this.”
Ongoing Investigation
Anyone with dashcam footage or information related to the crash is urged to contact the Westfield Police Department at (908) 789-4000 or reach out to Union County Crime Stoppers anonymously.
May Edward Russo rest in eternal peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all those affected by this senseless tragedy.
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