Middletown, NJ (February 16, 2025) – The New Jersey State Police are seeking public assistance following a fatal hit-and-run crash on the Garden State Parkway that claimed the life of a Plainfield man on Friday evening.
According to authorities, 33-year-old Jose Cerda-Estevez was struck by multiple vehicles near milepost 112.8 in Middletown Township, Monmouth County, just before 6 p.m. Tragically, none of the involved vehicles stopped at the scene.
Investigators reported that Cerda-Estevez exited the front passenger seat of a southbound Honda Pilot while the vehicle was in motion. The circumstances surrounding why he left the moving vehicle remain unclear. Soon after exiting, he was hit by several passing vehicles, suffering fatal injuries.
Emergency responders arrived quickly, but Cerda-Estevez was pronounced dead at the scene. Law enforcement officials have not yet identified the vehicles that struck him and are urging any witnesses or individuals with dashcam footage from the area to come forward.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident to determine the exact sequence of events leading up to the tragedy.
Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the victim during this difficult time.
Hit-and-Run Accidents in New Jersey
Hit-and-run accidents remain a serious concern across New Jersey, particularly on high-speed roadways like the Garden State Parkway. Fleeing the scene of a crash is a criminal offense that can result in severe legal consequences, especially when a fatality is involved.
In New Jersey, drivers involved in an accident are legally required to stop, render aid, and notify authorities. Unfortunately, some motorists choose to leave the scene, making it more difficult for investigators to determine responsibility and provide closure to the victims’ families.
Pedestrian-involved crashes on highways pose additional dangers, as high traffic volumes and fast-moving vehicles reduce reaction times. Officials urge pedestrians to exercise extreme caution near highways and drivers to remain vigilant, especially during low-visibility hours.
If you have any information regarding this tragic incident, contact the New Jersey State Police immediately. For those impacted by similar accidents, legal and support resources are available to help navigate the aftermath of such devastating events.
For more information or to receive help after an accident, contact Local Accident Reports.