Day: August 21, 2021

State of NJ

Coast Guard sets Port Condition ZULU for New York and New Jersey

August 21, 2021

NEW YORK — The U.S. Coast Guard Captain of the Port (COTP) has set Hurricane Condition ZULU for the Port of New York and New Jersey. At a minimum, gale force winds from a hurricane force storm are expected to make landfall along the coast of New York/New Jersey within 12 hours.

Mariners are advised that the COTP will further manage tropical storm conditions in the ports through vessel traffic control measures. These measures will limit vessel movement in accordance with the Standard Severe Weather Practices outlined in the Captain of the Port New York Hurricane and Severe Weather Plan. These measures will be implemented by the Vessel Traffic Service based on observed and predicted wind conditions as the storm progresses.

Drawbridges may not be operating when sustained winds reach 35 knots or when evacuation is in progress.  In accordance with 33 CFR 160.109, all facilities and vessels within the Ports of New York and New Jersey shall cease cargo operations, lightering and bunkering when directed by the COTP.

In accordance with 33 CFR 161 and based on observed weather conditions, the Captain of the Port New York may impose a complete harbor closure affecting all commercial operations.  Light tugs assisting other vessels/barges and emergency vessels will normally be the only vessels allowed to operate during these conditions.

All commercial self-propelled oceangoing vessels over 500 gross tons desiring to remain or depart port must contact the COTP after setting of Hurricane Condition Zulu. Vessels bound for the port of New York and New Jersey are advised to contact the COTP at (718) 354-4088 for additional guidance. 

Please refer to Coast Guard Advisory Notice (CGAN 2021-14) for details.

“With the storm arriving in the next few hours, we are focused on coordinating with our port partners and providing the most up to date information to the public in an effort to ensure the port and its users remain safe and prepared for this weather event. Specifically for the public we serve, please remember to stay off and out of the water for now, secure all boats and paddle-craft, ensure any gear or paddle-craft are labeled, and listen to and heed all weather advisories and Coast Guard broadcasts,” said Capt. Marc Sennick, Alternate Captain of the Port for New York and New Jersey. “Experienced commercial mariners and maritime industry who we work with everyday are a critical part of our hurricane and severe weather plans.  I cannot emphasize enough how much I appreciate their proactive efforts to prepare for this storm.  Their partnership, along with our New York and New Jersey first responder colleagues truly create the fabric that makes this port special.”

The Coast Guard is advising the public of these important safety messages: 

Stay off the water. The Coast Guard’s search and rescue capabilities degrade as storm conditions strengthen. This means help could be delayed. Boaters should heed weather watches, warnings, and small craft advisories.

Secure belongings. Owners of large boats are urged to move their vessels to inland marinas where they will be less vulnerable to breaking free of their moorings or to sustaining damage. Trailer-able boats should be pulled from the water and stored in a place that is not prone to flooding. Those who are leaving their boats in the water are reminded to remove EPIRBs and to secure life rings, lifejackets, and small boats. These items, if not properly secured, can break free and require valuable search and rescue resources be diverted to ensure people are not in distress.

Stay clear of beaches. Wave heights and currents typically increase before a storm makes landfall. Even the best swimmers can fall victim to the strong waves and rip currents caused by tropical storms or hurricanes. Swimmers should stay clear of beaches until local lifeguards and law enforcement officials say the water is safe.

Be prepared. Area residents should be prepared by developing a family plan, creating a disaster supply kit, having a place to go, securing their home and having a plan for pets. Information can be found at the National Hurricane Center’s webpage.

Stay informed. The public should monitor the progress and strength of the storm through local television, radio, and the Internet. Updated weather forecasts for the New York area can be found at the National Weather Service’s webpage. Boaters can monitor its progress on VHF radio channel 16. Information can also be obtained on small craft advisories and warnings on VHF radio channel 16.

Don’t rely on social media. People in distress should use 911 to request assistance whenever possible. Social media should not be used to report life-threatening distress due to limited resources to monitor the dozens of social media platforms during a hurricane or large-scale rescue event.

Vessels and facilities may contact the Vessel Traffic Service at SECNYVTS@uscg.mil or (718) 354-4088 with additional questions or concerns. 

National Weather Service Images
Hamilton, Hamilton, Mercer County, Robbinsville, Robbinsville

Man With Reported Head Injury Flown To Hospital From NJ Turnpike

August 21, 2021

HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–At 3:13 p.m. the Robbinsville Township Fire Department was dispatched to the New Jersey Turnpike for a landing zone assignment at the request of NJ State Police. Robbinsville Township ambulance and NJ State Troopers were on scene of a man who reportedly suffered a head injury and needed to be flown to a trauma center from the Richard Stockton Service Area. Traffic was shut down from Exit 7A South so the helicopter could land on the Turnpike. After the helicopter took off for the trauma center the Turnpike was reopened to traffic. No further information is available at this time.

Cape May, Cape May

Update: 16 Year Old, Cape May Beach Patrol Lifeguard, Norman V. Inferrera III. Passed Away From Injuries Sustained In Lifeguard Boat Accident

August 21, 2021

CAPE MAY, NJ (CAPE MAY)–It is with great sadness that the City of Cape May announces the passing of Lifeguard Norman V. Inferrera III. 

Inferrera was involved in an incident which occurred off our Reading Avenue Beach on August 19, 2021. Based on current information, while rowing a lifeguard boat in the ocean, the boat was broadsided by a wave and flipped over. Inferrera was knocked unconscious. Fellow lifeguards responded immediately to his aid.

“My heart, prayers, and condolences go out to the Inferrera family”, said Mayor Zachary Mullock. “Even at such a young age, Norman was loved by his fellow Lifeguards. No words can express the sadness suffered by all of our Beach Patrol family.  Norman chose to protect others. He did so professionally and worked hard at it. That is an extraordinary attribute for anyone, especially at 16 years old. The Cape May community cares so deeply for those who protect us. I know this entire community is going to do anything it can for Norman’s family and friends.”

Cape May Beach Patrol Chief Harry Back expressed his condolences. “My thoughts and prayers are with the Inferrera family. He was a beloved member of our Beach Patrol family. Norman had a permanent smile on his face and was living out his dream to be a lifeguard.”   

City Manager Mike Voll said, “Chief Back and the entire Beach Patrol have shown the utmost professionalism, while simultaneously providing care to all those touched so deeply by Norman. I want to thank all of the Beach Patrols who gave their valuable assets and gave our Patrol help in this time of need.”

As we collectively grieve the passing of this bright light from our world, far too soon, we remind and encourage those needing an ear to listen or a shoulder to lean on, to reach out to their support system and seek counseling. The City & Chief Back immediately provided grief counselors for all Beach Patrol staff. Those who may have already returned to their winter locales are always members of our Cape May family, and we stand ready to wrap our arms around all who need it.

A GofundMe was set up prior of Norman passing away by his aunt: 16 yr old Lifeguard loses his life

“The Lord called my beautiful nephew Norman home last night. The family is overwhelmed with sorrow. The bright light in this tragedy is the support and prayers that have been pouring in. We send love and blessings to each and every one of you.

Thank you for the continued acts of kindness as the hospital bills are going to be astronomical.” –Kathleen Inferrera Price

Infrared File photo of City Of Cape May lifeguard stand

Atlantic City, Burlington, Cape May, Fishing, Hunterdon County, Mercer County, Middlesex County, Monmouth County, Ocean County, Outdoors, State of NJ

Coast Guard sets Port Condition YANKEE for New York and New Jersey

August 21, 2021

NEW YORK — The Coast Guard Captain of the Port (COTP) has set Port Condition YANKEE for the Ports of New York and New Jersey, due to the expectation of gale force winds from Tropical Storm Henri expected to arrive within 24 hours.

Mariners are advised that the COTP will further manage tropical storm conditions in the ports through vessel traffic control measures. These measures will limit vessel movement in accordance with the Standard Severe Weather Practices outlined in the Captain of the Port New York Hurricane and Severe Weather Plan. These measures will be implemented by the Vessel Traffic Service based on observed and predicted wind conditions as the storm progresses.

All facilities and vessels within the Port of New York and New Jersey shall cease cargo operations, lightering and bunkering when directed by the COTP. All commercial self-propelled oceangoing vessels over 500 gross tons desiring to remain or depart port must contact the COTP if their departure time is later than 12 hours after setting of Hurricane Condition YANKEE. Vessels bound for the port of New York and New Jersey are advised to contact the COTP at (718) 354-4088 for additional guidance. 

Please refer to Coast Guard Advisory Notice (CGAN 2021-13) for details.

The Coast Guard is advising the public of these important safety messages:

Stay off the water. The Coast Guard’s search and rescue capabilities degrade as storm conditions strengthen. This means help could be delayed. Boaters should heed weather watches, warnings, and small craft advisories.

Secure belongings. Owners of large boats are urged to move their vessels to inland marinas where they will be less vulnerable to breaking free of their moorings or to sustaining damage. Trailer-able boats should be pulled from the water and stored in a place that is not prone to flooding. Those who are leaving their boats in the water are reminded to remove EPIRBs and to secure life rings, lifejackets, and small boats. These items, if not properly secured, can break free and require valuable search and rescue resources be diverted to ensure people are not in distress.

Stay clear of beaches. Wave heights and currents typically increase before a storm makes landfall. Even the best swimmers can fall victim to the strong waves and rip currents caused by tropical storms or hurricanes. Swimmers should stay clear of beaches until local lifeguards and law enforcement officials say the water is safe.

Be prepared. Area residents should be prepared by developing a family plan, creating a disaster supply kit, having a place to go, securing their home and having a plan for pets. Information can be found at the National Hurricane Center’s webpage.

Stay informed. The public should monitor the progress and strength of the storm through local television, radio, and the Internet. Updated weather forecasts for the New York area can be found at the National Weather Service’s webpage. Boaters can monitor its progress on VHF radio channel 16. Information can also be obtained on small craft advisories and warnings on VHF radio channel 16.

Don’t rely on social media. People in distress should use 911 to request assistance whenever possible. Social media should not be used to report life-threatening distress due to limited resources to monitor the dozens of social media platforms during a hurricane or large-scale rescue event.

Vessels and facilities may contact the Vessel Traffic Service at SECNYVTS@uscg.mil or (718) 354-4088 with additional questions or concerns.

National Weather Service Images
Brick, Ocean County

19 And 20 Year Old From Brick Township, NJ Killed In Illinois Crash

August 21, 2021

MULBERRY GROVE, IL (FAYETTE) –The Illinois State Police is investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash that happened on Route 70 East Bound at Milepost 55, in Mulberry Grove, Fayette County on August 20, 2021 at 9:19 a.m.

Police say, preliminary investigative details indicate the following occurred:

A 2020 Freightliner tractor trailer was traveling westbound on Interstate 70, near mile post 55.

A Chevrolet Pickup pulling a trailer with a car, and a Honda Odyssey were traveling eastbound on Interstate 70 at the same location.

The tractor trailer left the roadway to the left and traveled through the median. The tractor trailer struck the trailer of the pickup truck. The tractor trailer then struck the Honda, causing both units to skid into the south ditch.

The driver of the tractor trailer from Los Angeles, CA was airlifted to a regional hospital with serious injuries.

The driver and passenger of pickup from Missouri refused medical attention.

The 19-year-old male driver and 20-year-old female passenger of Honda from Brick Township, NJ were pronounced deceased on scene.

The ISP Traffic Crash Reconstruction Unit is continuing the investigation. No further information will be disseminated at this time.

The driver of the tractor trailer was cited for Improper Lane Use and Failure to Reduce Speed to Avoid a Crash.

IL State Police Photo
Burlington, Hunting, Outdoors

Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease Found in 1 Deer in Burlington County

Public Asked to Contact DEP, Report Deer With Possible Symptoms

August 21, 2021

BURLINGTON, NJ –The Department of Environmental Protection’s Division of Fish and Wildlife has confirmed Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) in a deer recently sampled in Burlington County. The sample was also tested for Blue Tongue, another virus that can cause hemorrhagic disease in deer, and it was negative. Neither disease is a threat to public health.

EHD and Bluetongue are contracted from the bite of insects called midges (Culicoides sp.). They cannot be transmitted to people, and humans are not at risk by handling infected deer, being bitten by infected midges or eating infected deer meat.

The Division of Fish and Wildlife always advises against consuming meat from any game animal that appears ill.

EHD outbreaks typically begin in late summer. Symptoms in deer may include difficulty standing, drooling, and emitting foam from the mouth or nose. Since the disease causes a fever, sick or dead deer are often seen in or near water. Disease transmission ends when the first hard frost kills midges.

The clinical signs of disease caused by the EHD and Bluetongue viruses are identical and can only be differentiated by testing and virus isolation.

There have been multiple outbreaks of EHD in New Jersey deer since 1955. Bluetongue virus was isolated from one deer that died in Basking Ridge, Somerset County and another that died in Stirling, Morris County in 2014.

The public is strongly encouraged to report deer with any of the symptoms described above to the Division of Fish and Wildlife at one of the following contacts:

Office of Fish and Wildlife Health and Forensic
Dr. Nicole Lewis, Wildlife Veterinarian, (908) 735-6398 or nicole.lewis@dep.nj.gov

Bureau of Wildlife Management
Jodi Powers, (609) 223-6073 or jodi.powers@dep.nj.gov

Bluetongue and EHD are reportable diseases to the New Jersey Department of Agriculture Division of Animal Health, but only Bluetongue is a significant concern in livestock.

Livestock issues should be directed to the New Jersey Department of Agriculture, Division of Animal Health at (609) 671-6400.

The New Jersey Department of Agriculture’s Animal Health Diagnostic Laboratory can assist in diagnosing suspected Bluetongue cases in livestock by offering testing and necropsy services. Call the lab at (609) 406-6999 or email jerseyvetlab@ag.state.nj.us.

More information about the tests offered can be found at www.jerseyvetlab.nj.gov

For information about white-tailed deer in New Jersey, visit www.njfishandwildlife.com/deer.htm

Keansburg, Monmouth County

Keansburg Man Taken Into Custody After 6 Hour Standoff With Police

August 21, 2021

KEANSBURG, NJ (MONMOUTH)– A 28 year old Keansburg man was taken into custody last night after a nearly 6 hour standoff with police, announced Acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Lori Linskey.

At approximately 3:45 p.m. on Friday, August 20, 2021, officers from the Keansburg Police Department responded to home of Anthony Hoff, located near Seeley and Carr Avenues in the Borough, for a welfare check as a result of a call to police from a concerned family member.  At that time, Hoff became belligerent and threatened the responding officers while refusing to come out of his residence.

The Monmouth County Emergency Response Team (MOCERT) and Monmouth County Rapid Deployment Force (RDF) were then activated and members of the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office, Keansburg Police Department and other surrounding law enforcement agencies responded to the area at around 4:30 p.m.  During the standoff, the man threatened officers with the use of a firearm and threw a knife in the direction of police.  After several hours of negotiation, at approximately 9:40 p.m., Hoff was taken into custody without incident and transported to a local hospital for evaluation.

Linskey credited the members of MOCERT and RDF, the Keansburg Police Department and other county and local agencies for their efforts in defusing this situation. “I thank the responding officers for their efforts in doing all that was possible to de-escalate this situation. Because of their professional and measured actions, this incident ended without injury,” said Linskey.

Hoff was charged with offenses including third degree Terroristic Threats, third degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, fourth degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, fourth degree Aggravated Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer, third degree Burglary and disorderly persons Criminal Mischief. 

Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all of the trial rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and State law.

Bordentown Twp, Burlington

Bordentown Township Police Investigate Fatal Motor Vehicle Collision

August 21, 2021

BORDENTOWN TOWNSHIP, NJ (BURLINGTON)–The Bordentown Township Police Department is investigating a fatal motor vehicle collision which occurred on August 20, 2021 that resulted in the death of a 27 year-old male from Springfield Township.

Preliminary investigation has determined that a 2018 Kawasaki motorcycle operated by Brandon Agron, age – 27, of Highland Rd. Jobstown NJ was traveling northbound on Rt. 206 in the area of Amboy Rd. at approximately 9:44 pm when he was struck from behind by a 2016 Kia Sedan.

Agron sustained severe injuries as a result of the collision and was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Kia sedan, John Tozzi, age – 82, of Black Pine Dr. Hamilton NJ sustained minor injuries and was transported to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton for treatment.

NJSP, Bordentown City PD, Mansfield Township PD, Mission Fire Company, Virtua Medics and Bordentown EMS all assisted with this incident.

Township Police continue to investigate the cause of this collision and anyone who witnessed or who has information regarding such is requested to contact Sgt. Anthony Biddle at 609-298-4300, ext. 2220.