Trenton, NJ (March 3, 2025) – A wrong-way driver on Route 29 caused a devastating three-vehicle collision early Sunday morning, resulting in serious injuries and a vehicle fire, according to authorities.
Trenton police, fire crews, and EMS responded to the crash near the Calhoun Street exit at approximately 4:20 a.m. Upon arrival, emergency responders found three heavily damaged vehicles, two of which had overturned, while one was engulfed in flames, Trenton Police Capt. Lisette Rios confirmed.
Before authorities arrived, an unknown good Samaritan rescued an unconscious driver from the burning vehicle. Police later determined that a 60-year-old Burlington Township woman, driving a Toyota SUV southbound in the northbound lanes of Route 29, collided head-on with a Jeep Gladiator driven by a 33-year-old Trenton man. The impact sent the Jeep spinning into the middle lane, where it was struck from behind by another Jeep, a Cherokee driven by a 24-year-old Trenton man.
Both Jeeps overturned multiple times before coming to a rest, with the Gladiator’s engine erupting into flames. The driver of the Gladiator, who was pulled from the burning wreckage, was transported to a local hospital and later released. The Cherokee driver managed to exit his vehicle on his own.
The Toyota driver sustained life-threatening injuries and had to be cut from her vehicle by Trenton firefighters. She was rushed to Capital Health Regional Medical Center in critical condition with multiple injuries.
Authorities continue to investigate the crash, with Trenton Police Detective Vincent Gribbin working alongside the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Serious Collision Response Team.
Our thoughts are with the injured individuals, and we hope for a full recovery.
Wrong-Way Collisions in New Jersey
Wrong-way driving accidents are among the most dangerous types of crashes, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities due to high-speed, head-on impacts. In New Jersey, highways like Route 29 present a particular risk, as drivers traveling in the wrong direction may have limited visibility and reaction time before a collision occurs.
Common causes of wrong-way crashes include driver confusion, impaired driving, and poor roadway signage. When vehicles collide head-on at highway speeds, the force of impact can cause catastrophic damage, rollovers, and fires, as seen in this recent Trenton crash.
Victims of wrong-way accidents often face serious medical challenges, including long recovery periods, costly medical treatments, and emotional trauma. Seeking immediate medical attention and legal guidance can be essential in addressing the aftermath of such incidents.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a serious crash, Local Accident Reports is here to provide support, real-time accident updates, and valuable resources. Contact us today to learn more about your options and how to protect your rights after a vehicle collision.