October 22, 2022
ALEXANDRIA TOWNSHIP, NJ (HUNTERDON)–The New Jersey State Police Public Information Unit said that Troopers responded to a medical assist for sky diving incident at Alexandria Field Airport, 70 Airport Road, Alexandria Twp., Hunterdon County around 2:15 p.m., yesterday. Upon arrival of the troopers the male victim Brandon M. Jackson a 37-year-old male of Troy, Michigan was deceased. There is no additional information available at the moment.
September 2, 2022
FLEMINGTON, NJ (HUNTERDON)–Just before 6:00 a.m., a fire was reported in the first block of Fulper Road. Heavy fire was found in the original fire building that was extending to other surrounding building. Numerous additional fire departments including a tanker task force were dispatched to the scene. Firefighters battled the flames for about an hour before bringing the fire under control. No additional information is available at this time.
Photos provided by:
July 19, 2022
CLINTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (HUNTERDON)–According to the Clinton Township website discussions are underway to close County Road 629 permanently in the area of the Round Valley Reservoir by the request of the New Jersey Water Supply Authority due to security concerns of “bad actors”
From the Clinton Township website:
As you probably already know, County Road 629 in Clinton Township, Hunterdon County has been closed since April 8, 2020, from the corner of Cherry Street and Old Mountain Road to just east of the driveway to the NJDEP “fishlabs”. The fish labs are located just east of the parking lot access to the Round Valley Fish and Wildlife Boat Ramp. This was originally proposed as a temporary closure during the construction project on the Round Valley embankments. This temporary closing was allowed by Hunterdon County Engineering at the request of the New Jersey Water Supply Authority.
Recently, the Authority has had informal conversations with the Hunterdon County Engineering Department, the Borough of Lebanon, and Clinton Township about making the existing temporary closure of County Road 629 permanent. Following our informal discussions, a specific request to close the road permanently has been asked of the mayors of Lebanon Borough and Clinton Township in advance of a formal similar request to Hunterdon County. If the closing is allowed, it is our intent, after all construction is complete, to continue to allow public access on the road for pedestrians and bicycles only. Keys to the vehicular access gates would be provided to Lebanon Borough, Clinton Township, and Hunterdon County emergency staff for vehicular access. This is not out of the ordinary as keys have already been provided to the same emergency services groups for to access other Authority-owned secure areas.
The purpose of this change is to improve dam safety. We cannot share specifics, but I can tell you that a very serious threat to earthen dams by bad actors would be facilitated by vehicular access to the structure. County Road 629 is the crest of the Round Valley Dike. Be aware that failure of any of the three Round Valley dams would have catastrophic impacts on downstream residents and water supply to over one million people in central New Jersey.
It is also noted that the Authority has received verbal support of this proposal from New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s Bureau of Dam Safety. The Round Valley Dike is the only one of the three embankments (at Round Valley) with unrestricted vehicular access to the crest. To my knowledge, there are no earthen embankments of this size in the state of New Jersey that allows public vehicular access.
I hope this helps you understand the situation. We do plan to add this information along with updates to our website in the future. The link to our project-specific webpage follows.
The Round Valley reservoir was formed in the 1960s in the Township of Clinton, New Jersey after the State constructed three large earthen embankments and flooded a large valley. The reservoir was named after the ring shaped Cushetunk Mountain that surrounds the area.
While the large valley was caused by the erosion of soft sedimentary rock, the surrounding mountain ridges endured due to the dense and durable underlay of volcanic rock.
Reaching depths of 180 feet, this 2,350-acre reservoir is known for its clear blue waters. At full capacity, the reservoir contains 55 billion gallons of water for use in central New Jersey, making it the largest water supply reservoir by volume in the state. Its water is primarily released to the nearby South Branch of the Rockaway Creek, which feeds the North Branch of the Raritan River.
The Round Valley reservoir is an “off-stream pump storage” reservoir, which means that it is filled primarily by pumping water into it. The New Jersey Water Supply Authority operates a pumping station in the Hamden section of Clinton Township to move water from the South Branch of the Raritan River into the reservoir via a large underground pipeline. Round Valley reservoir is part of a larger water supply system supply called the Raritan Basin system, which also includes the Spruce Run Reservoir. Additional information about the Raritan Basin system can be found on the Authority’s website.
Round Valley reservoir was designed for water supply purposes, but is also managed for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, hiking, swimming and camping. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s (NJDEP) Division of Fish and Wildlife manages the fishery and game resources at Round Valley Reservoir and the NJDEP State Park Service manages the other recreational aspects of the reservoir.
January 28, 2022
TRENTON, NJ–A significant winter storm will impact the area tonight and tomorrow. See the official National Weather Service Page for updates. The current briefing product can be found here. This is a dangerous storm follow directions from State and Local Officials. State of New Jersey Office of Emergency Management
Governor Phil Murphy has declared a State of Emergency:
A blizzard warning has been issued for Monmouth, Ocean, Atlantic, and Cape May Counties in NJ and coastal Sussex County DE.
Blizzard Warning ...BLIZZARD WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 7 PM THIS EVENING TO 7 PM EST SATURDAY... * WHAT...Blizzard conditions expected. Total snow accumulations of 8 to 15 inches. Winds gusting as high as 50 mph. * WHERE...The coastal counties of New Jersey, and coastal sections of Sussex County in Delaware. * WHEN...From 7 PM this evening to 7 PM EST Saturday. * IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult to impossible. Areas of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. Gusty winds could bring down tree branches. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow is expected to begin on Friday evening, with snow becoming heavy after midnight. The most likely time for blizzard conditions is late Friday night through midday Saturday. Blizzard conditions are primarily expected at or within a few miles from the coast. Snow will wind down Saturday afternoon.
December 8, 2021
EAST AMWELL, NJ (HUNTERDON)–According to the New Jersey State Police, Troopers responded at 12:39 p.m. to a motor vehicle crash on State Highway 31 southbound milepost 15, East Amwell, Hunterdon County.
Based on a preliminary investigation a Freightliner was traveling north on State Highway 31. A Toyota was traveling south on State Highway 31. The Freightliner entered the southbound lanes and collided with the Toyota. Driver of the Toyota, Qaneta A. Zaafar, 80-year-old female of Lambertville, N.J. sustained fatal injuries.
September 6, 2021
LAMBERTVILLE, NJ — Governor Phil Murphy today announced that FEMA has approved a Major Disaster Declaration in Bergen, Gloucester, Hunterdon, Middlesex, Passaic, and Somerset counties. The declaration will allow individuals in the six approved counties to register at www.disasterassistance.gov for direct assistance for Ida-related recovery, which may include home repairs, temporary housing, low-cost loans, and other programs to help recover from the effects of the tropical storm.
Governor Murphy today also announced that the state has launched a data collection portal to gather data from impacted individuals outside of the six counties where FEMA has declared the Major Disaster Declaration. FEMA and the State continue to evaluate damage in other counties and the state portal will ensure that all Ida damages across all counties in the State are evaluated for potential FEMA assistance. The state portal will record basic information including name, location, damages and cost, and need from impacted residents and businesses. It is accessible at nj.gov/ida and damagenj-njoem.hub.arcgis.com
“Many residents of our state are facing a long road ahead as they recover from Ida,” said Governor Murphy. “I am very grateful to the Biden Administration and FEMA for their swift approval of the Major Disaster Declaration for six of our counties. I urge residents and businessowners in those counties to visit FEMA’s website and begin the application process. We also urge residents outside of the six counties to register their information at nj.gov/ida so that we can be ready to get dollars into the hands of additional New Jerseyans as soon as we are able.”
“I applaud the extraordinary efforts of FEMA for their continued support to the residents of New Jersey that are recovering from Tropical Storm Ida,” said Colonel Patrick Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “This Major Disaster Declaration and data collection portal will expedite the recovery process and aid us in our effort to become a more resilient state as we build our communities back.”
The Governor made the announcement during a visit to Lambertville, a Delaware River community in Hunterdon County where many individuals faced severe storm impacts.
LAMBERTVILLE – Governor Phil Murphy today provided an update on preliminary fatalities and New Jerseyans who have been reported missing as a result of Tropical Storm Ida.
“Currently, we have no additional fatalities to report,” said Governor Murphy. “Our thoughts and prayers are with every family and community mourning a loved one and of those who remain missing.”
Photos by: Brian McCarthy OnScene News
September 1, 2021
MOUNT HOLLY, NJ (BURLINGTON)–The National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning for the following areas. Check the Mount Holly National Weather Service page for further details.
The National Weather Service in Mount Holly NJ has issued a
* Tornado Warning for...
Southeastern Hunterdon County in northwestern New Jersey...
Northwestern Mercer County in central New Jersey...
Southwestern Somerset County in northern New Jersey...
Central Bucks County in southeastern Pennsylvania...
* Until 630 PM EDT.
* At 557 PM EDT, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado
was located over Ivyland, or 16 miles west of Trenton, moving
northeast at 50 mph.
HAZARD...Tornado.
SOURCE...Radar indicated rotation. This storm has a history of
produicing a tornado.
IMPACT...Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without
shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed.
Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree
damage is likely.
* Locations impacted include...
Ewing, Princeton, Doylestown, Byram, Flemington, Chalfont,
Pennington, New Hope, Hopewell, Ivyland, Rocky Hill, Stockton,
Washington Crossing, Skillman, Lumberville, Sergeantsville,
Cloverhill, Gardenville, Sand Brook and Richboro.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
TAKE COVER NOW! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest
floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a
mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter
and protect yourself from flying debris.
Heavy rainfall may hide this tornado. Do not wait to see or hear the
tornado. TAKE COVER NOW!
Tropical Storm Ida Stories Here:
Tropical Storm Ida Floods Lawrence Township 100+ Displaced
2 Tropical Storm Ida Related Fatalities And 50 Rescues Made In Hopewell Township Floods
BREAKING: House Explodes In Manville, NJ
Tropical Storm Ida Pounds Area, Tornados, Flash Floods, Rescues Made, Deaths Reported
Trenton Evacuates “The Island” In Preparation Of Anticipated Flooding
BREAKING: “Miracle In Mercer County” As 3 Police Officers Rescued After Being Swept Away By Floods
Governor Murphy Declares State of Emergency in Response to Tropical Storm Ida
BREAKING: Reports of NJ Task Force 1 Activation For Tornado In South Jersey And Flooding
City of Trenton to Start Voluntary Evacuation Proceedings in High-Risk Flood Zones
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.
July 7, 2021
DELAWARE TOWNSHIP, NJ (HUNTERDON)–NJ State Police say, on July 6, 2021 at 5:26 p.m. troopers were dispatched to 2185 Daniel Bray Highway (Bull’s Island Recreation Area) in Delaware Twp., Hunterdon County for the reports of a male drowning victim. Preliminary investigation revealed that Jorge Herrera-Salmoran, 33 of Doylestown, PA, entered the Delaware River to go swimming but was pulled under the water by the current of the river. He was recovered from the water and pronounced deceased on scene. This is an active investigation and there is no further information available.
March 2, 2021
Spring Cleaning will be held Saturday March 20, 2021 at 8:15 a.m. for the first registration FREE
For more information and to register please contact Stephanie Fox at StephanieFox@dep.nj.gov
DELAWARE TOWNSHIP, NJ (HUNTERDON)–Join the Delaware Township Environmental Commission and Bull’s Island Recreation Area for a towpath cleanup between Prallsville Mill and Bull’s Island Recreation Area in Hunterdon County. Early Spring is a great time to pick up litter before the grass and brambles are growing. Due to COVID-19 we are asking for groups between the sizes of 4-8 people to adopt a cleanup area along the D&R Canal and Bulls Island. The groups must be comprised of people who have already been spending time together such as family groups, scout groups, church groups, sport teams, etc. Supplies such as gloves, bags and pickers will be provided.
Every group must have a designated leader who would be responsible for registration and be the point of contact for day of the event. Each group will work in a separate location and registration times will be staggered for social distancing purposes and masks are required. There will be a limit of 6 groups so register early!
Meeting place: Bull’s Island Recreation Area, 2185 Daniel Bray Highway,
Time to meet: First registration begins at 8:15 and continues until 9:20 a.m.
What to wear: Layers, long pants, sturdy footwear. Clean-up tshirt provided!
What to bring: Masks are required. We will be providing gloves but you are welcome to bring your own.
Restrictions:
Families are welcome, with at least 1 adult per 3 children under 13.
Children, ages 13 to 16, can be chaperoned with 1 adult per 5 children.
Waivers will be required
February 1, 2021
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–A Winter Storm Warning from the National Weather Service continues as Winter Storm Orlena moves though the area.
The National Weather Service Philadelphia-Mount Holly reports that heavy snow will continue with an additional snow accumulations of 4 to 7 inches. Winds will gusting as high as 40 mph. Travel could be very difficult there will be areas of blowing snow that could significantly reduce visibility. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning or evening commute. The heaviest snow will end by late this evening. Periods of light snow accumulating snow will linger through Tuesday. The Winder Storm Warning will expire on 4:00 PM on Tuesday February 2, 2021.
There have been multiple accidents in the area South Brunswick Police Department reported at 12:00 pm that they have responded to 34 crashes/assists and that the roads remain hazardous. The remind people to stay off the roads as they are very slippery. NJ State Police has responded to 583 motor vehicle crashes and 839 aid to motorists. All agencies are urging residents to remain off the roadways and let snowplows do their jobs.
At 1:58 pm the Robbinsville Township Fire Department responded to the New Jersey Turnpike north bound in the inner lanes for a tractor-trailer accident blocking a lane.
The Robbinsville Township Fire Department also reminds those with fire hydrants near their homes to make sure they are clear. Clear a space 3 feet around the hydrant and a path to the roadway. This will help firefighters locate the hydrant and not have to spend time shoveling it out when needed in an emergency.
National Weather Service Snow totals as of 4:35 PM EST Mon Feb 1 2021 Burlington County Florence 6.3 in 0300 PM 02/01 Trained Spotter Columbus 5.1 in 0330 PM 02/01 Trained Spotter Cooperstown 4.1 in 1100 AM 02/01 NWS Employee 1 ENE Westampton Twp 3.9 in 0100 PM 02/01 Official NWS Obs Moorestown 3.8 in 0215 PM 02/01 Trained Spotter Mount Laurel 3.7 in 0115 PM 02/01 Trained Spotter Southampton Twp 3.0 in 1154 AM 02/01 Public Middlesex County New Brunswick 18.0 in 0426 PM 02/01 Trained Spotter South Plainfield 17.0 in 1230 PM 02/01 Public Port Reading 16.5 in 0320 PM 02/01 Public Edison 14.0 in 0200 PM 02/01 Public Perth Amboy 13.0 in 0120 PM 02/01 Public South River 13.0 in 0345 PM 02/01 Public Carteret 12.5 in 0125 PM 02/01 Trained Spotter Colonia 11.2 in 1205 PM 02/01 Broadcast Media East Brunswick 11.0 in 0200 PM 02/01 Trained Spotter Highland Park 11.0 in 0200 PM 02/01 Trained Spotter Old Bridge 11.0 in 0120 PM 02/01 Public 2 WSW Rossmoor 8.5 in 0100 PM 02/01 Trained Spotter Monmouth County Holmdel 13.5 in 0230 PM 02/01 Trained Spotter Belford 12.0 in 1136 AM 02/01 Public Keyport 12.0 in 0250 PM 02/01 Trained Spotter Colts Neck 11.5 in 0400 PM 02/01 Trained Spotter Freehold 11.5 in 0130 PM 02/01 Trained Spotter 1 ENE Cliffwood 11.0 in 0200 PM 02/01 Trained Spotter Manalapan Twp 9.8 in 0240 PM 02/01 Trained Spotter Marlboro 9.5 in 1240 PM 02/01 Trained Spotter Eatontown 8.7 in 0245 PM 02/01 Trained Spotter Freehold Twp 7.5 in 0200 PM 02/01 Public Howell 7.2 in 0130 PM 02/01 Trained Spotter 1 WNW Deal 6.5 in 0200 PM 02/01 Trained Spotter Ocean County Jackson 7.3 in 0430 PM 02/01 Trained Spotter Brick 5.3 in 0426 PM 02/01 Trained Spotter Bayville 0.5 in 0431 PM 02/01 Trained Spotter Toms River 0.4 in 0430 PM 02/01 Trained Spotter Mercer County has not reported yet.
...SIGNIFICANT WINTER STORM CONTINUES ACROSS THE REGION... NJZ009-010-012-013-015-PAZ103>106-021015- /O.EXT.KPHI.WS.W.0001.000000T0000Z-210202T2100Z/ Hunterdon-Somerset-Middlesex-Western Monmouth-Mercer- Western Montgomery-Eastern Montgomery-Upper Bucks-Lower Bucks- Including the cities of Flemington, Somerville, New Brunswick, Freehold, Trenton, Collegeville, Pottstown, Norristown, Lansdale, Chalfont, Perkasie, Morrisville, and Doylestown 401 PM EST Mon Feb 1 2021 ...WINTER STORM WARNING NOW IN EFFECT UNTIL 4 PM EST TUESDAY... * WHAT...Heavy snow. Additional snow accumulations of 4 to 7 inches. Winds gusting as high as 40 mph. * WHERE...Portions of central, northern and northwest New Jersey and southeast Pennsylvania. * WHEN...Until 4 PM EST Tuesday. * IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult. Areas of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning or evening commute. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The heaviest snow will end by late this evening. Periods of light snow accumulating snow will linger through Tuesday. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.
January 31, 2021
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–The New Jersey State Police is urging New Jersey residents to prepare for a nor’easter that will affect the entire state. From late Sunday night through Tuesday morning, most of New Jersey will be under a Winter Storm Warning.
The storm is expected to create hazardous travel conditions statewide, so if you do not need to travel, please stay home to allow crews to safely treat our roadways. If you must travel, here are some safety tips to follow:
• Drive slowly. It’s harder to control or stop your vehicle on slick or snow-covered surfaces
• Increase the following distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you, which will help prevent rear-end crashes on slick roads
• Make sure your cell phone is fully charged before you leave for your trip
• Pack bottled water, blankets, and dry food goods in the event you get stranded
• Leave a friend or family member a travel itinerary so that they can alert police should you get stranded and/or lose cell service
• Make sure your gas tank is full before you leave in case you get stuck in traffic
• Top off your windshield washer fluid to clear salt from your windshield
• Pack a few bags of sand or cat litter, which can create traction for vehicles stuck on slippery road grades
If your vehicle becomes disabled during the storm, follow these safety rules:
• Call 9-1-1
• Stay inside your car. You are safer inside your car than outside
• Turn on your hazard lights
• To avoid asphyxiation from carbon monoxide poisoning, don’t run your car for long periods of time with the windows fully up. If you must run your vehicle, clear the exhaust pipe of any snow and run it only sporadically — just long enough to stay warm
The best way to avoid storm-related travel hazards is to stay off of the roads, but if you must travel, please take the time to prepare. Before you leave, make sure you check for the latest weather updates.
Winter Storm Warning
URGENT – WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Mount Holly NJ
1050 AM EST Sun Jan 31 2021
NJZ009-010-012-015-PAZ105-106-010500-
/O.CON.KPHI.WS.W.0001.210131T2200Z-210202T1800Z/
Hunterdon-Somerset-Middlesex-Mercer-Upper Bucks-Lower Bucks-
Including the cities of Flemington, Somerville, New Brunswick,
Trenton, Chalfont, Perkasie, Morrisville, and Doylestown
1050 AM EST Sun Jan 31 2021
…WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 5 PM THIS
AFTERNOON TO 1 PM EST TUESDAY…
* WHAT…Heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations of 16 to 22
inches. Winds gusting as high as 35 mph.
* WHERE…Portions of central, northern and northwest New Jersey
and southeast Pennsylvania.
* WHEN…From 5 PM this afternoon to 1 PM EST Tuesday.
* IMPACTS…Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The
hazardous conditions could impact the morning or evening
commute.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Snow develops late this afternoon and
will last through Monday night or early Tuesday. Snow may be
heavy at times on Monday.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in
your vehicle in case of an emergency.
The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can
be obtained by calling 5 1 1.
November 25, 2020
Post by Tyler Eckel
West Trenton, N.J. – The day before Thanksgiving is typically one of the busiest travel days of the year, but this holiday season has proven to be anything but typical. Although we expect fewer motorists on the road this year, the message of the New Jersey State Police remains the same. If you must travel during the holiday, we encourage you to take the time to prepare for unexpected emergencies by following a few safety tips that will surely come in handy if you find yourself in a jam. Before you head out, please consider the following:
•Fill up your gas tank
•Check fluids (including windshield washer fluid and antifreeze)
•Check tire pressure
•Bring a mobile phone charger
•Carry a flashlight with new batteries
•Bring bottles of water and nonperishable snacks
•Do not drive drowsy. Symptoms of driving tired are similar to those of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Use service areas to rest, stretch your legs, or grab a cup a coffee
•Let someone know your travel plans
•Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly
The easiest tip to follow to ensure not only your safety, but the safety of fellow motorists and pedestrians this holiday is to not get behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. During the 2019 Thanksgiving holiday period, there were six fatal crashes that resulted in six deaths on New Jersey roadways. Drug and/or alcohol impairment was found to be a contributing factor in two of the crashes. These types of tragedies can be easily avoided by making responsible decisions and staying at home if you plan to drink alcohol.
The New Jersey State Police will have more than 90 additional troopers statewide during the holiday period in addition to normal patrols. Troopers will focus their efforts on speeding, aggressive driving, seatbelt usage, cell phone violations, distracted driving, and DWI.
“Although we will be celebrating the holiday differently this year, DWI education and enforcement remain a top priority for the New Jersey State Police,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “Safety starts with sober driving, so we ask that you do your part by making responsible choices this holiday. Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving, and please do not drink and drive.”
The 2020 Thanksgiving holiday period begins on Wednesday, November 25, at 6:00 p.m. and ends on Monday, November 30, at 6:00 a.m.
October 17, 2020
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Saturday October 17, 2020 is National Move Over Day.
Under New Jersey’s “Move Over” law, drivers are required to reduce their speed and change lanes when approaching an authorized emergency vehicle, tow truck or highway maintenance, emergency service or sanitation vehicle that is displaying flashing, blinking or alternating emergency lights.
Unfortunately, law enforcement, emergency workers and tow truck operators continue to be struck and injured or killed while aiding others on the side of the road because a passing vehicle did not sufficiently slow down and move over.
When you see flashing lights on the side of the road, slow down, and if it’s safe, MOVE OVER. If you make the move, others will follow.
https://www.nj.gov/oag/hts/move-over-law/
MidJersey.News articles involving Slow Down, Move Over type incidents:
UPDATE: NJSP Col. Callahan And Govenor Phil Murphy Provide Update On Crash; Trooper Will Be OK After Being Thrown 30 Feet June 22, 2020
BREAKING: NJ State Police Vehicle Destroyed By Dump Truck On NJ Turnpike — June 22, 2020
BREAKING: NJ State Police Vehicle Struck On NJ Turnpike Sending 1 To Hospital June 7, 2020
SLOW DOWN MOVE OVER: NJTP Car Fire And Rubberneck 3 Car Accident June 4, 2020
NJSP Troop “C” Hamilton, 10th Anniversary Of When Trooper Was Struck By Passing Motorist On I-195
Marc K. Castellano was born on July 15, 1980 in Lakewood, New Jersey and lived in Jackson until he moved to Howell, New Jersey in 2004. He was a graduate of Jackson Memorial High School in 1998 and received a Jackson PBA scholarship that year. He received his associate’s degree from Ocean County College in 2000, a Bachelor of Science degree from Rutgers University in 2003 and a Master’s degree at Farleigh Dickinson University in 2010. Marc was a two-year starter at middle linebacker from 1996-1997 and a team captain during his senior year for the Jackson Memorial High School football team.
Trooper Castellano enlisted in the New Jersey State Police on September 24, 2004, as a member of the 136th Class and was assigned to the Troop “C” Tactical Patrol Unit #1 at the time of his death. His service with the New Jersey State Police was characterized by loyalty, fearless performance of his duty and faithful and honorable devotion to the principles of the New Jersey State Police.
Trooper Castellano died as a result of injuries received while in the performance of duty.
At approximately 10:00 am on Sunday, June 6, 2010, Trooper Castellano was walking along the shoulder of Interstate 195 West near the Exit 31 ramp in Howell Township. He was searching for an alleged armed occupant of an abandoned vehicle that was connected to an ongoing investigation when he was struck by a passing motorist. He was taken to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, New Jersey, where he died several hours later from his injuries.
Trooper Castallano served 5 years and 8 months with the New Jersey State Police.
He is survived by his parents, a brother, his wife and two children. Trooper Castellano was 29 years old.
New Jersey Statute 39:4-92.2
Procedure for motorist approaching certain stationary vehicle.
1. a. The operator of a motor vehicle approaching a stationary authorized emergency vehicle as defined in R.S.39:1-1 that is displaying a flashing, blinking or alternating red or blue light or, any configuration of lights containing one of these colors, shall approach the authorized emergency vehicle with due caution and shall, absent any other direction by a law enforcement officer, proceed as follows:
(1) Make a lane change into a lane not adjacent to the authorized emergency vehicle if possible in the existing safety and traffic conditions; or
(2) If a lane change pursuant to paragraph (1) of subsection a. of this section would be impossible, prohibited by law or unsafe, reduce the speed of the motor vehicle to a reasonable and proper speed for the existing road and traffic conditions, which speed shall be less than the posted speed limit, and be prepared to stop.
b. The operator of a motor vehicle approaching a stationary tow truck as defined in section 1 of P.L.1999, c.396 (C.39:3-84.6) that is displaying a flashing amber light, a stationary highway maintenance or emergency service vehicle that is operated by the State, an authority or a county or municipality and displaying flashing yellow, amber, or red lights, or a stationary sanitation vehicle displaying a flashing amber warning light pursuant to section 1 of P.L.2011, c.3 (C.39:3-54.27) shall approach the vehicle with due caution and shall, absent any other direction by a law enforcement officer, proceed as follows:
(1) Make a lane change into a lane not adjacent to the tow truck, highway maintenance or emergency service vehicle, or sanitation vehicle if possible in the existing safety and traffic conditions; or
(2) If a lane change under paragraph (1) of subsection b. of this section would be impossible, prohibited by law or unsafe, reduce the speed of the motor vehicle to a reasonable and proper speed for the existing road and traffic conditions, which speed shall be less than the posted speed limit, and be prepared to stop.
c. A violation of this section shall be punished by a fine of not less than $100 and not more than $500.
L. 2017, c.43, s.1.
September 19, 2020
“Thank a Police Officer Day” is a national observance honoring law enforcement on the third Saturday in September. If you happen to see a police officer in your travels today, thank them for their service.
Thanks you law enforcement for keeping us safe.
Defendant was one of 40 offenders arrested in “Operation Statewide”
August 12, 2020
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal announced that a man was sentenced to state prison today after being convicted at trial of using a file-sharing network to distribute images of children being sexually exploited. He was one of 40 offenders arrested in “Operation Statewide,” a child protection operation by the New Jersey Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, which includes the New Jersey State Police, Division of Criminal Justice, U.S. Homeland Security Investigations, and numerous state, county and local law enforcement agencies.
John M. Rudy, 57, of Flemington, N.J., was sentenced today to seven years in state prison, including five years of parole ineligibility, by Superior Court Judge Angela F. Borkowski in Hunterdon County. He will be required to register as a sex offender under Megan’s Law and will be subject to parole supervision for life. Rudy was found guilty on Jan. 14 in a jury trial of second-degree charges of distribution of 25 or more items of child pornography and storing or maintaining 25 or more items of child pornography using a file-sharing network, and third-degree possession of 100 or more items of child pornography.
Deputy Attorney General Thomas Huynh and former Deputy Attorney General Supriya Prasad tried the case for the Division of Criminal Justice Financial & Cyber Crimes Bureau, with assistance from the New Jersey State Police Digital Technology Investigations Unit (DTIU) and Technical Assistant Gabrielle Pichler.
“By sharing child sexual abuse materials online, this defendant participated in a criminal network that promotes and perpetuates the brutal sexual exploitation of children,” said Attorney General Grewal. “Our multi-agency efforts to patrol the internet and put these offenders in prison reflect our commitment to protect children and ensure justice for those who have been victimized. I commend our attorneys and trial team, as well as all of the detectives and investigators who helped secure this prison sentence.”
“We will continue to work with the State Police and law enforcement at all levels to disrupt the online market for these vile materials and send those who distribute them to prison,” said Director Veronica Allende of the Division of Criminal Justice. “We are sending a loud and clear message that those who commit these crimes will face serious consequences.”
“The criminals who operate these file-sharing networks online depicting child pornography are no less dangerous than those who peddle narcotics on the street. Their enterprise thrives on the pain and suffering of the victims and their families, and their deplorable behavior is a scourge on society,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “We will continue to lead the charge against those who target our children by working cooperatively with our federal, state and local partners, whose collective resolve to bring child predators to justice is unwavering.”
While monitoring a peer-to-peer file-sharing network popular with sex offenders, a detective of the New Jersey State Police DTIU downloaded more than 50 items of child sexual exploitation material from a shared folder at a computer IP address that was subsequently traced to Rudy. Rudy was arrested on June 9, 2016 when members of the DTIU, assisted by the Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Office and the Raritan Township Police Department, executed a search warrant at his home and seized numerous devices, including a desktop computer, 97 flash drives, and eight SD cards. Forensic examinations revealed the flash drives and SD cards contained child sexual exploitation material, and one contained over 100 items of such material.
Operation Statewide was a multi-agency child protection operation coordinated by the New Jersey State Police, as lead agency for the New Jersey ICAC Task Force, which led to arrests of 40 men in 2016, including defendants in every county of New Jersey. During the operation, investigators linked all of the defendants to alleged use of the internet to download and distribute child sexual abuse materials. Peer to Peer, or P2P, file sharing networks play a major role in the distribution of such materials.
Because many of the videos and photos of child sexual abuse shared on these networks keep recirculating, they result in the perpetual re-victimization of the children who were sexually assaulted or abused to produce them.
Attorney General Grewal commended the attorneys and staff in the Division of Criminal Justice Financial & Cyber Crimes Bureau who prosecuted Rudy, as well as all members of the New Jersey State Police DTIU and other agencies in the ICAC Task Force who conducted Operation Statewide, including the Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Office and Raritan Township Police Department.
Attorney General Grewal and Director Allende urged anyone with information about the distribution of child sexual abuse materials on the internet – or about suspected improper contact by unknown persons communicating with children via the internet or possible exploitation or sexual abuse of children – to contact the New Jersey Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Tipline at 888-648-6007.
Defense Attorney: James R. Wronko, Esq., Wronko Loewin Bennuci, Somerville, N.J.
August 10, 2020
August 11, 2020 update: According to the Hopewell Township Police the person from yesterday’s water search was found and is ok.
BREAKING NEWS REPORT: From on scene reports, radio reports and witnesses, if and when official information is made available story will be updated.
HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP (MERCER)-LAMBERTVILLE-WEST AMWELL, NJ (HUNTERDON)–A kayak was found unoccupied in the Delaware River just south of the “wing dam” in the rapids located in West Amwell just south of Lambertville around 2:30 pm. Fire and rescue units from both New Jersey and Pennsylvania responded to the scene those included Hopewell Township, Lambertville, West Amwell, in NJ, New Hope, PA and others from the area. Rescue boats searching south of the wing dam launched at Fireman’s Eddy Boat Ramp just off of Route 29 in the D&R Canal State Park.
Units searching by boat reported over the radio finding a “debris field” of items from the kayak but after searching for hours no person was found. Areas north and south of the wing dam were searched.
No other information is available at this time about the search.
MidJersey.News 
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