Glen Rock & Ridgewood, NJ (February 12, 2025) – A hit-and-run driver from Paramus suffered life-threatening injuries after a series of crashes in Glen Rock and Ridgewood on Tuesday morning. Authorities say the driver, identified as 53-year-old Luis A. Balseca, was involved in multiple collisions before being found unresponsive outside his wrecked vehicle.
The incident began at the intersection of Ackerman and Maple Avenues, where Balseca reportedly backed his 2018 Mercedes GT63 into a Glen Rock DPW snow plow that was stopped in traffic. He then struck another vehicle before fleeing northbound on Maple Avenue into Ridgewood.
Moments later, Balseca lost control and crashed into two utility poles on South Maple Avenue near Linden Avenue. When officers arrived, they found him face-down and unresponsive outside his vehicle. Emergency responders from the Ridgewood Fire Department and The Valley Hospital administered life-saving measures, including Narcan, before transporting him to Hackensack University Medical Center for critical injuries.
The crash caused significant damage to the utility poles, one of which split in half, leaving its top section suspended by power lines. The scene remained active for hours as PSE&G crews worked to make repairs.
Police later discovered an open bottle of Johnnie Walker Black Label at the crash site. Balseca now faces multiple charges, including leaving the scene of an accident, failing to report it, careless driving, DWI, and possession of an open alcohol container. Both Glen Rock and Ridgewood police departments, along with the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Fatal Accident Investigation Unit and the sheriff’s Crime Scene Unit, are conducting a joint investigation.
Our thoughts are with all those affected by this incident, and we hope for a safe recovery for those involved.
Drunk Driving Accidents in New Jersey
Drunk driving remains a leading cause of serious and fatal crashes in New Jersey. Alcohol impairs a driver’s ability to react quickly, make sound decisions, and maintain control of a vehicle, increasing the likelihood of catastrophic accidents. Multi-vehicle crashes, such as the one in Glen Rock and Ridgewood, can leave victims with severe injuries, property damage, and emotional trauma.
Law enforcement officials take DWI offenses seriously, and those found guilty can face harsh penalties, including fines, license suspension, and potential jail time. However, legal consequences do not erase the pain and suffering caused to victims and their families.
Victims of drunk driving accidents may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Seeking legal and medical guidance can help ensure their rights are protected and that they receive the support they need for recovery.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a drunk driving accident, know that you are not alone. Local Accident Reports is committed to providing victims with important information and connecting them with the resources they need. Reach out today to learn about your options and how to move forward.