A heartbreaking crash on the New Jersey Turnpike early Monday morning has left a Keyport man dead following a chain of collisions that unfolded in South Brunswick.
Authorities identified the victim as 32-year-old Albert R. Masonius, who tragically lost his life after being struck by a vehicle while standing outside his disabled car.
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According to New Jersey State Police, the initial crash occurred around 4:00 a.m. on the southbound inner roadway near milepost 76, involving five vehicles. Masonius’s car became disabled in the center lane after it was hit during the first series of impacts.
Investigators say Masonius exited his vehicle and was in the left lane when he was struck by a passing SUV. The impact caused fatal injuries, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. Two other drivers involved in the initial collision—occupants of a Honda SUV—suffered minor injuries and received treatment at the scene.
The State Police Fatal Accident Investigation Unit continues to look into the incident, including whether the SUV driver who hit Masonius remained on-site or cooperated with law enforcement.
The crash led to heavy traffic delays for several hours Monday morning as emergency crews cleared the wreckage and collected evidence.
Authorities are reminding motorists never to leave their vehicles on active lanes of high-speed highways unless absolutely necessary. Drivers are urged to remain inside their cars, move to a safe shoulder if possible, and immediately contact 911 for help.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional details will be released as they become available.