A tragic accident occurred on February 19, resulting in the death of a 61-year-old man from Bridgewater. The incident took place in the morning when a vehicle crashed into a tree, leading to severe injuries for the front-seat passenger. Later that day, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital confirmed that the passenger had succumbed to his injuries. The elderly driver was unharmed but faced serious consequences due to the crash. Authorities are still investigating the cause of the accident and have requested public assistance.

Details of the Tragic Incident

The collision happened on private property early in the morning, involving a 2015 Subaru Legacy driven by a 90-year-old woman. As she reversed the car across the front yard, it struck a tree, causing the male passenger to be ejected from the vehicle. Emergency services responded promptly, and the area was cordoned off for investigation. This section outlines the immediate aftermath and response to the crash.

The crash occurred around 7:20 a.m. on Chimney Rock Road. Arna Cochran, the driver, was maneuvering her vehicle backward across the yard when it collided with a tree. The force of the impact caused Karl Cochran, the 61-year-old passenger, to be thrown from the car. Emergency personnel arrived swiftly to provide medical assistance. The road remained closed for over two hours as investigators examined the scene. Local authorities emphasized the need for thorough examination to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.

Ongoing Investigation and Community Response

Following the tragic event, the Bridgewater Township Police Department’s Traffic Safety Bureau and the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office launched an investigation into the cause of the crash. They are seeking information from witnesses or anyone who may have relevant details about the accident. The community has rallied to support emergency services in the area.

The local police department is working diligently to uncover all aspects of the crash. Officer Cole Taggert, assigned to the case, stated that any additional information could be crucial for their inquiry. Residents are encouraged to come forward if they observed anything unusual or have footage of the incident. Moreover, nearby volunteer organizations, including the Martinsville Rescue Squad and Martinsville Volunteer Fire, have been actively involved in providing support and are currently recruiting more volunteers to bolster their ranks. These groups play a vital role in ensuring community safety and readiness for future emergencies.