CRANBURY, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–A serious crash occurred this evening on the New Jersey Turnpike North Bound Outer Lanes in Cranbury, New Jersey near an emergency turnaround for the Molly Pitcher Service Area. A medical helicopter was called to the scene but was canceled due to proximity since the local trauma center is a short drive to New Brunswick. There were reports of other injuries and trauma alerts were called. All victims were transported to RWJ University in New Brunswick. Cranbury Fire Company, Hightstown Fire Department, Cranbury First Aid, Robbinsville EMS, Capital Health Paramedics with MSU, and Capital Allentown EMS responded to the crash. Google Maps reported a 4-mile delay going north bound in the outer roadway from Exit 8 to the area of the Molly Pitcher Service Area.
Sgt. Alejandro Goez of the New Jersey State Police, Public Information Unit told MidJersey.News that the accident was reported at 5:38 p.m., north bound at mile post 71.5 in the outer roadway in Cranbury Township. Two vehicles were involved and there is one serious injury reported at this time. The victim was taken to RWJ, University Hospital in New Brunswick.
The right lane is currently closed for the accident investigation.
Crash with Injuries on New Jersey Turnpike Outer Roadway northbound South of Molly Pitcher Service Area (Cranbury Twp) 2 Right lanes of 3 lanes blocked https://t.co/mB7zkX3flg
Delays and Rubbernecking delays on New Jersey Turnpike inner roadway northbound North of Interchange 8 – NJ 33 (East Windsor Twp) to South of Molly Pitcher Service Area (Cranbury Twp) all lanes open to traffic 3 1/2 mile delay https://t.co/RYLtAexvm4
Emergency maintenance on New Jersey Turnpike outer roadway northbound South of Molly Pitcher Service Area (Cranbury Twp) to South of Interchange 8A – NJ 32 (Cranbury Twp) right lane closed and detoured until further notice https://t.co/izYHasrrOV
Emergency maintenance on New Jersey Turnpike outer roadway northbound South of Molly Pitcher Service Area (Cranbury Twp) to South of Interchange 8A – NJ 32 (Cranbury Twp) right and center lanes closed and detoured until further notice https://t.co/bFv1Xx3utx
CRANBURY TOWNSHIP, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Around 8:56 p.m. Hightstown and Cranbury Fire Departments were dispatched to the New Jersey Turnpike for a truck fire. The fire was reported in the area of mile post 69 in the outer roadway. Fire arriving firefighters reported that the truck was well involved in fire. Additional water tankers were called to the scene including one from Monroe Township Fire Department. Firefighters remained on scene for an extended time to mop up hot spots and overhaul. The fire is currently creating a two mile traffic delay in the north bound direction starting prior to Exit 8. The inner roadway is closed for construction and the fire is on the outer roadway and down to two lanes in the area of the fire. New Jersey State Police is directing traffic in the area and investigating.
Delays and Traffic Congestion on New Jersey Turnpike Outer Roadway northbound South of Interchange 8 – NJ 33 (East Windsor Twp) to North of Interchange 8 – NJ 33 (Cranbury Twp) 1-2 miles delay https://t.co/WoSgvjD6HG
Truck fire on New Jersey Turnpike Outer Roadway northbound North of Interchange 8 – NJ 33 (Cranbury Twp) 2 Right lanes and shoulder of 3 lanes blocked https://t.co/gVVbcgaJnn
Truck fire on New Jersey Turnpike Outer Roadway northbound North of Interchange 8 – NJ 33 (Cranbury Twp) 1 Right lane and shoulder of 3 lanes blocked https://t.co/Krorwiyltb
CRANBURY, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Chief Michael J. Owens of the Cranbury Police Department announced today that a Cranbury woman has been charged in connection with a fatal crash, which resulted in the death of a passenger and serious bodily injury to the driver of one of the involved vehicles.
An investigation conducted by Detective Paul Lindenfeld of the Cranbury Police Department and Detective Jonathan Berman of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office determined that, on February 10, 2022, at approximately 4:12 P.M., Lisa Pollitt, 36, of Cranbury intentionally drove her vehicle into oncoming traffic where she struck the victims who were travelling northbound on Route 130. Both women in the impacted vehicle sustained serious bodily injuries and were transported to Robert Wood Johnson Hospital where the passenger, Ann “Nancy” Stewart, 95, of Monroe, remained in critical condition.
On February 12, 2022, Stewart died as a result of her injuries sustained in the crash.
Pollitt was initially arrested and charged with separate counts of second- and third-degree aggravated assault and fourth-degree obstruction. Upon the death of Ms. Stewart, she was charged with one count of first-degree murder. At present, the murder appears to be a random act as Pollitt and the victims were unknown to one another.
Pollitt remains in custody pending a pre-trial detention hearing in Superior Court.
The investigation is active and continuing. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Lindenfeld of the Cranbury Police Department at (609)664-3244 or Detective Berman of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office at (732) 745-4328.
As is the case with all criminal defendants, the charges against Pollitt are merely accusations and she is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Previous information:
February 11, 2022
CRANBURY, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Chief Michael J. Owens of the Cranbury Police Department announced today that authorities are investigating a two-car crash, which resulted in serious bodily injury to the driver and passenger of one of the involved vehicles.
On February 10, 2022, at approximately 4:12 P.M., authorities responded to the area of Route 130 and Justin Drive following the report of a crash involving multiple vehicles. The initial investigation conducted by Sergeant Douglas Mayer of the Cranbury Police Department and Detective Jonathan Berman of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office determined one driver operated a vehicle, which struck another vehicle occupied by two women as it travelled northbound on Route 130. Both women in that vehicle sustained serious bodily injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital where one, the passenger, remains in critical condition.
The investigation is active and continuing. Anyone with information is asked to call Sergeant Mayer of the Cranbury Police Department at (609) 395-0031 ext. 7726 or Detective Berman of the Middlesex County
CRANBURY, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Police and EMS were dispatched to Delta Apparel Inc, 5 Santa Fe Way, Suite 501, Cranbury, NJ 08512 on December 2, 2021 at 11:46 a.m. for a reported fall victim. On arrival, Police located Cesar Torres, a 34yo male from Hackensack NJ, atop an interior warehouse floor with a severe head injury. Robert Wood Johnson Hospital Paramedics, along with the Cranbury Township First Aid, transported Torres to Robert Wood Johnson Hospital (New Brunswick). Torres was subsequently pronounced dead while at the hospital.
The investigation revealed that Torres, an employee for WA Installation (Passaic NJ), was elevated within the warehouse, approximately 25 feet up, installing warehouse shelving racks, immediately prior to the accident. Next of Kin has been notified. The incident remains under investigation with the Cranbury Township Police Department and OSHA.
CRANBURY, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Firefighters from several departments including Cranbury, Hightstown, East Windsor, and Monroe Township were dispatched to a well involved dumpster fire that was next to a large warehouse at approximately 10:40 a.m. When firefighters arrived they found that the flames were starting to extend into the building. Firefighters arrived and extinguished the fire. No further details are available at this time.
Heavy rains from Tropical Storm Henri flooded the area overnight with up to eight inches of rain in the Central New Jersey area. Many people traveling on flooded roadways were trapped in the vehicles and needed to be rescued.
Hightstown Fire Company reported responding to at least 10 incidents with the majority being water rescues. Hightstown firefighters rescued eight civilians who were trapped in their vehicles or relocated to the roof of their vehicles due to flood waters.
The National Weather Service reported that 4 to 8 inches of rain fell from the storm and that Middlesex and Mercer Counties were particular hard hit.
[9:12 AM] Torrential rain across portions of the region, mostly focused in central NJ. 4-8 inches of rain has been reported in several counties, with Middlesex and Mercer counties particularly hard hit with some evacuations occurring. DO NOT drive through flooded roadways! #njwxpic.twitter.com/fX5CrvHmXD
Tropical Depression #Henri Advisory 28A: Henri Weakening But Still Expected to Produce Heavy Rainfall and Flooding Across Portions of Southern New England and The Northern Mid-Atlantic States Through Monday. https://t.co/VqHn0u1vgc
Runway is flooded at Trenton Robbinsville Airport N87 this morning
Sections of Route 130 was closed in several areas for flooding, East Windsor, Cranbury, South Brunswick until floodwaters receded.
Flooding in the area of Cranbury-South River Road and CR614 Dey Road, several cars were submerged and local fire departments made rescues earlier in the morning. A house and business was flooded near the location.
Flooding in the area of Cranbury-South River Road and CR614 Dey Road, several cars were submerged and local fire departments made rescues earlier in the morning. A house and business was flooded near the location.
Flooding in Jamesburg, NJ at the Lake Manalapan dam at West Railroad Avenue.
A Helmetta Public Works truck responds to flood waters and adds and resets cones blocking the road the many cars were going around and though the flood waters.
Flooding on Cranbury South River Road in South Brunswick near NJ Turnpike Exit 8A
A car stalled from flooding on Route 130 is being towed by Georges Garage at the Cranbury Township, South Brunswick Township border.
Flooding from Henri in Plainsboro, NJ August 22, 2021
Flooding in Cranbury, NJ from Heri on August 22, 2021
Flooding in the Main Street Cranbury Area from Henri, August 22, 2021
CRANBURY TOWNSHIP, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Two separate serious crashes on the NJ Turnpike in the area of Exit 8A left the North Bound outer “truck” lanes of the NJ Turnpike closed and traffic backed almost 10 miles to Exit 7A in Robbinsville.
Monroe Township Fire Rescue 23, Ladder 23, Engine 23, Tanker 23, Chief 23, Squad 57 and Monroe Twp EMS responded to the the NJTP for 2 separate calls. 1st call was for an overturned Commercial Vehicle in the NB Car Lanes. While responding, a 2nd call for a 2nd Commercial MVC with heavy entrapment just south of the first call was received. Crews worked quickly to free the driver from the vehicle.
MidJersey.news has reached out to NJ State Police for official information and when that becomes available the story will be updated.
CRANBURY TOWNSHIP, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Around 8:14 a.m. firefighters from Hightstown, Cranbury and Monroe Township were dispatched to the NJ Turnpike in the area of mile post 71 south bound for a truck fire. Smoke could be seen for miles and additional tankers were called to the scene.
The south bound outer roadway was down to the left shoulder during the firefight. Delays were also on the inner roadway mostly from rubbernecking.
10:00 p.m. UPDATE: NJ State Police Sgt. Alejandro Goez told MidJersey.news that the accident was reported at 4:49 p.m. south in the outer roadway at MP 70 in Cranbury Township. A Acura TLX collided with a Harley Davidson motorcycle. The motorcycle overturned and the rider was ejected.
The rider, 33 year-old male of Passaic, NJ sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to RWJ New Brunswick. No injuries reported to the driver of the Acura. The scene was clear by 6pm.
The accident remains under investigation.
CRANBURY, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Just prior to 5:00 p.m., Hightstown, Cranbury, and East Windsor first aid squads along with Capital Health Paramedics were sent to the NJ Turnpike near mile marker 70 south bound outer lanes for a car vs motorcycle. A helicopter was placed on standby but the decision was made to transport to Robert Wood Johnson University Medical Center in New Brunswick a near by trauma center. During transport a “trauma alert” was called en route to the hospital.
The New Jersey State Police is investigating the crash.
Traffic backup and accident clean up on the NJ Turnpike south bound in Cranbury Township NJ after a car vs motorcycle accident.
EAST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–Around 7:20 a.m. an accident was reported on the NJ Turnpike south bound inner roadway at mile post 70 with reported entrapment. The Hightstown Fire Company, Monroe Township Fire Department, Cranbury First Aid Squad, Hightstown First Aid Squad and Capital Paramedics were sent to the scene.
Monroe Township Fire reported “going in service with the tools” to cut the driver of one of the vehicles out of the car.
The injured were transported to a local hospital for treatment of non-life-threating injuries.
NJ State Police is investigating the crash. No further information is available at this time.
Just south of this accident Robbinsville Township Fire Department and EMS and East Windsor Rescue Squad were sent to mile marker 67 north bound inner roadway for another crash. It was unclear if anyone in that accident was transported to the hospital.
Heavy rains were moving though the area at the time of the crashes from Tropical Storm Elsa.
CRANBURY TOWNSHIP, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Around 11:08 a.m. a vehicle traveling south on the NJ Turnpike in front of the Molly Pitcher Service Area near the 71.8 mile marker lost control and crashed into a guard rail and the driver was reported trapped. Firefighters from Hightstown Fire Company and Cranbury Fire Company responded to the scene for he extrication. Capital Health Paramedics and Cranbury First Aid Squad responded to the scene to treat the patient.
It was reported that the person had to be extricated from the vehicle. Firefighters used rescue equipment to open the door of the vehicle. The victim was transported to the hospital, destination was unclear.
CRANBURY TOWNSHIP, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Around 8:46 p.m. the Hightstown Fire Company, Cranbury Fire Company, and EMS were dispatched to the NJ Turnpike for a vehicle fire on the inner roadway at mile marker 69. When the fire chief arrived he found a vehicle well involved in fire as the result of an accident. Hightstown and Cranbury firefighters extinguished the fire. It was reported that the injures were non-life-threating and a second ambulance was called to the scene. It was unclear if anyone was transported from the scene to the hospital.
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–As we reported Saturday on the Colonial Pipeline that runs though New Jersey and supplies gasoline, diesel fuel and aircraft fuel to the eastern part of the country has announced that the entire pipeline should be operational by noon today. There is no need to hoard gasoline or other fuel and disrupt the local supply chain as seen and reported in other parts of the country.
Locally the pipeline runs though Burlington, Mercer County, Middlesex County on its way to Linden, New Jersey and was shut down to a ransomware cyber attack.
System Restart and Operational Update #2 Update: Thursday, May 13, 4:40 p.m.
Colonial Pipeline has continued to make substantial progress in safely restarting our pipeline system. We can now report that we have restarted our entire pipeline system and that product delivery has commenced to all markets we serve.
Following this restart, it will take several days for the product delivery supply chain to return to normal. Some markets served by Colonial Pipeline may experience, or continue to experience, intermittent service interruptions during this start-up period. Colonial will move as much gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel as is safely possible and will continue to do so until markets return to normal.
This would not have been possible without the commitment and dedication of the many Colonial team members across the pipeline who worked safely and tirelessly through the night to get our lines up and running. We are grateful for their dedicated service and professionalism during these extraordinary times.
See update below from the Colonial Pipeline:
Update: Thursday, May 13, 9 a.m.
Colonial Pipeline has made substantial progress in safely restarting our pipeline system and can report that product delivery has commenced in a majority of the markets we service. By mid-day today, we project that each market we service will be receiving product from our system. The green segments on this map are operational, meaning product delivery has commenced. Blue lines will be operational later today.
This would not have been possible without the commitment and dedication of the many Colonial team members across the pipeline who worked safely and tirelessly safely through the night to get our lines up and running. We are grateful for their dedicated service and professionalism during these extraordinary times.
Colonial Pipeline Company, founded in 1962, connects refineries – primarily located in the Gulf Coast – with customers and markets throughout the Southern and Eastern United States through a pipeline system that spans more than 5,500 miles. The company delivers refined petroleum products such as gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, home heating oil, and fuel for the U.S. Military. Colonial is committed to safety and environmental stewardship across its operations.
Colonial Pipeline is the largest refined products pipeline in the United States, transporting more than 100 million gallons or 2.5 million barrels per day. Colonial transports approximately 45 percent of all fuel consumed on the East Coast, providing refined products to more than 50 million Americans.
Specifically, Colonial transports various grades of gasoline, diesel fuel, home heating oil, jet fuel, and fuels for the U.S. military through a pipeline system. The system is connected refineries in the Gulf Coast and in the Northeast. The majority of the system is underground, with tankage and other facilities at key receipt, storage and delivery points.
Related MidJersey.news coverage on Colonial Pipeline incident here:
Move slider to 3:41 for President Joe Biden’s remarks on the Colonial Pipeline.
May 10, 2021
Update — Monday, May 10, 12:25 p.m.
Colonial Pipeline continues to dedicate vast resources to restoring pipeline operations quickly and safely. Segments of our pipeline are being brought back online in a stepwise fashion, in compliance with relevant federal regulations and in close consultation with the Department of Energy, which is leading and coordinating the Federal Government’s response.
Restoring our network to normal operations is a process that requires the diligent remediation of our systems, and this takes time. In response to the cybersecurity attack on our system, we proactively took certain systems offline to contain the threat, which temporarily halted all pipeline operations, and affected some of our IT systems. To restore service, we must work to ensure that each of these systems can be brought back online safely.
While this situation remains fluid and continues to evolve, the Colonial operations team is executing a plan that involves an incremental process that will facilitate a return to service in a phased approach. This plan is based on a number of factors with safety and compliance driving our operational decisions, and the goal of substantially restoring operational service by the end of the week. The Company will provide updates as restoration efforts progress.
We continue to evaluate product inventory in storage tanks at our facilities and others along our system and are working with our shippers to move this product to terminals for local delivery. Actions taken by the Federal Government to issue a temporary hours of service exemption for motor carriers and drivers transporting refined products across Colonial’s footprint should help alleviate local supply disruptions and we thank our government partners for their assistance in resolving this matter.
Our primary focus continues to be the safe and efficient restoration of service to our pipeline system, while minimizing disruption to our customers and all those who rely on Colonial Pipeline. We appreciate the patience of the traveling public and the support we have received from the Federal Government and our peers throughout the industry.
The FBI confirms that the Darkside ransomware is responsible for the compromise of the Colonial Pipeline networks. We continue to work with the company and our government partners on the investigation.
REGIONAL EMERGENCY DECLARATION UNDER 49 CFR § 390.23 No. 2021-002
ALABAMA, ARKANSAS, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, DELAWARE, FLORIDA, GEORGIA, KENTUCKY, LOUISIANA, MARYLAND, MISSISSIPPI, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, NORTH CAROLINA, PENNSYLVANIA, SOUTH CAROLINA, TENNESSEE, TEXAS, AND VIRGINIA
In accordance with the provisions of 49 CFR § 390.23, the Regional Field Administrators for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Eastern, Southern, and Western Service Centers hereby declares that an emergency exists that warrants issuance of a Regional Emergency Declaration and an exemption from Parts 390 through 399 of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety (FMCSRs), except as otherwise restricted in this Emergency Declaration. Such emergency is in response to the unanticipated shutdown of the Colonial pipeline system due to network issues that affect the supply of gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and other refined petroleum products throughout the Affected States. This Declaration addresses the emergency conditions creating a need for immediate transportation of gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and other refined petroleum products and provides necessary relief. Affected States and jurisdictions included in this Emergency Declaration (“Affected States”) are: Alabama, Arkansas, District of Columbia, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia.
By execution of this Emergency Declaration, motor carriers and drivers providing direct assistance to the emergency in the Affected States in direct support of relief efforts related to the shortages of gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and other refined petroleum products due to the shutdown, partial shutdown, and/or manual operation of the Colonial pipeline system are granted relief from Parts 390 through 399 of Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations except as restricted herein.
This Emergency Declaration provides for regulatory relief for commercial motor vehicle operations while providing direct assistance supporting emergency relief efforts transporting gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and other refined petroleum products into the Affected States during the emergency from shortages due to the shutdown, partial shutdown, and/or manual operation of the Colonial pipeline system. Direct assistance terminates when a driver or commercial motor vehicle is used in interstate commerce to transport cargo or provide services not in support of emergency relief efforts related to the shortages of gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and other refined petroleum products due to the shutdown, partial shutdown, and/or manual operation of the Colonial pipeline system in the Affected States, or when the motor carrier dispatches a driver or commercial motor vehicle to another location to begin operations in commerce. (49 CFR § 390.23(b)). Upon termination of direct assistance to emergency relief efforts related to the shortages of gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and other refined petroleum products due to the shutdown, partial shutdown and/or manual operation of the Colonial pipeline system in the Affected States, the motor carrier and driver are subject to the requirements of 49 CFR Parts 390 through 399, except that a driver may return empty to the motor carrier’s terminal or the driver’s normal work reporting location without complying with Parts 390 through 399. When a driver is moving from emergency relief efforts to normal operations a 10-hour break is required when the total time a driver operates conducting emergency relief efforts, or a combination of emergency relief and normal operation, equals 14 hours.
All other applicable safety requirements remain in place and will be enforced by the FMCSA. Specifically, nothing contained in this Emergency Declaration shall be construed as an exemption from the controlled substances and alcohol use and testing requirements (49 CFR Part 382), the commercial driver’s license requirements (49 CFR Part 383), the financial responsibility (insurance) requirements (49 CFR Part 387), the hazardous material regulations (49 CFR Parts 100-180), applicable size and weight requirements, or any other portion of the regulations not specifically authorized pursuant to 49 CFR § 390.23.
Motor carriers or drivers currently subject to an out-of-service order are not eligible for the relief granted by this declaration until they have met the applicable conditions for its rescission and the order has been rescinded by FMCSA.
In accordance with 49 CFR § 390.23, this declaration is effective immediately and shall remain in effect until the end of the emergency (as defined in 49 CFR § 390.5) or until 11:59 P.M. (ET), June 8, 2021, whichever is earlier. FMCSA intends to continually review the status of this Emergency Declaration and may take action to modify or terminate the Emergency Declaration sooner if conditions warrant.
Taft Kelly, Regional Field Administrator Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Eastern Service Center
Darrell L. Ruban, Regional Field Administrator Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Southern Service Center
Scott G. Hernandez, Regional Field Administrator Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Western Service Center
Related MidJersey.news coverage on Colonial Pipeline incident here:
On May 7, 2021 Colonial Pipeline Company learned it was the victim of a cybersecurity attack and has since determined that the incident involved ransomware. Quickly after learning of the attack, Colonial proactively took certain systems offline to contain the threat. These actions temporarily halted all pipeline operations and affected some of our IT systems, which we are actively in the process of restoring.
Leading, third-party cybersecurity experts were also immediately engaged after discovering the issue and launched an investigation into the nature and scope of this incident. We have remained in contact with law enforcement and other federal agencies, including the Department of Energy who is leading the Federal Government response.
Maintaining the operational security of our pipeline, in addition to safely bringing our systems back online, remain our highest priorities. Over the past 48 hours, Colonial Pipeline personnel have taken additional precautionary measures to help further monitor and protect the safety and security of its pipeline.
The Colonial Pipeline operations team is developing a system restart plan. While our mainlines (Lines 1, 2, 3 and 4) remain offline, some smaller lateral lines between terminals and delivery points are now operational. We are in the process of restoring service to other laterals and will bring our full system back online only when we believe it is safe to do so, and in full compliance with the approval of all federal regulations.
At this time, our primary focus continues to be the safe and efficient restoration of service to our pipeline system, while minimizing disruption to our customers and all those who rely on Colonial Pipeline. We appreciate the patience and outpouring of support we have received from others throughout the industry.
Related MidJersey.news coverage on Colonial Pipeline incident here:
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–The Colonial Pipeline the largest refined products pipeline in the United States, transporting more than 100 million gallons of fuel daily to meet the energy needs of consumers from Houston, Texas to the New York Harbor was shut down to a sever cyber attack as announced this morning. The attack has taken certain IT systems off line and the pipeline is working to restore the pipeline to normal operation. The pipeline moves 2.5 million barrels per day providing gasoline, diesel fuel, home heating oil, jet fuel to all major airports in region and fuel for the military though the pipeline system.
Locally the pipeline runs from the south though Burlington (Bordentown, Joint Base), Mercer County (Hamilton, Robbinsville-East Windsor), Middlesex (Cranbury, Monroe, South Brunswick), Union County (Linden).
Statement from Colonial Pipeline:
On May 7, the Colonial Pipeline Company learned it was the victim of a cybersecurity attack. In response, we proactively took certain systems offline to contain the threat, which has temporarily halted all pipeline operations, and affected some of our IT systems. Upon learning of the issue, a leading, third-party cybersecurity firm was engaged, and they have already launched an investigation into the nature and scope of this incident, which is ongoing. We have contacted law enforcement and other federal agencies.
Colonial Pipeline is taking steps to understand and resolve this issue. At this time, our primary focus is the safe and efficient restoration of our service and our efforts to return to normal operation. This process is already underway, and we are working diligently to address this matter and to minimize disruption to our customers and those who rely on Colonial Pipeline.
Media Statement Updated: Colonial Pipeline System Disruption
Updated — Saturday, May 8, 12:30 p.m.
On May 7, the Colonial Pipeline Company learned it was the victim of a cybersecurity attack. We have since determined that this incident involves ransomware. In response, we proactively took certain systems offline to contain the threat, which has temporarily halted all pipeline operations, and affected some of our IT systems. Upon learning of the issue, a leading, third-party cybersecurity firm was engaged, and they have launched an investigation into the nature and scope of this incident, which is ongoing. We have contacted law enforcement and other federal agencies.
Colonial Pipeline is taking steps to understand and resolve this issue. At this time, our primary focus is the safe and efficient restoration of our service and our efforts to return to normal operation. This process is already underway, and we are working diligently to address this matter and to minimize disruption to our customers and those who rely on Colonial Pipeline.
According to the Colonial Pipeline website the “Colonial Pipeline is the largest refined products pipeline in the United States, transporting more than 100 million gallons or 2.5 million barrels per day. Colonial transports approximately 45 percent of all fuel consumed on the East Coast, providing refined products to more than 50 million Americans.
Specifically, Colonial transports various grades of gasoline, diesel fuel, home heating oil, jet fuel, and fuels for the U.S. military through a pipeline system. The system is connected refineries in the Gulf Coast and in the Northeast. The majority of the system is underground, with tankage and other facilities at key receipt, storage and delivery points.”
Related MidJersey.news coverage on Colonial Pipeline incident here:
Locally the Colonial Pipeline runs though Burlington, Mercer and Middlesex Counties as seen the morning of May 8, 2021
The last time the Colonial Pipeline had an issue in the area was on October 3, 2008 in Hamilton Township Mercer County near Allentown-Yardville Road at the NJ Turnpike. A crew doing soil borings for the NJ Turnpike widening project drilled into the Colonial Pipeline causing an oil spill. Hamilton Township Fire Department and the Hamilton Township Hazardous Materials Team responded to the incident.
October 3, 2008 when a contractor doing soil borings for the NJ Turnpike widening project drilled into the Colonial Pipeline causing a leak. MidJersey.news file photos by: Dennis Symons, Jr.
CRANBURY TOWNSHIP, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–A smoke condition in the Amazon TEB6 warehouse at 22 Hightstown-Cranbury Station Road caused an evacuation of the facility yesterday April 28, 2021 around 4:06 pm . The Cranbury Fire Company, Hightstown Fire Company, East Windsor Fire Companies 1 & 2 quickly responded to the scene. After an investigation the smoke condition was determined to be coming from a strobe light fixture. The fire departments turned the issue over to the building manager. As standard procedure the building is evacuated any time there is a problem and employees assemble in their designated meeting areas for accountability. After the fire departments cleared the employees returned to work. There were no injuries or other issues reported.
Previous MidJersey.news stories on Amazon TEB6 here:
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Trenton Police Department Detective Captain Peter Weremijenko told MidJersey.news that on Thursday April 22, 2021 around 10:08 pm Trenton Police Offices Olix Heredia and Marvin Hebert were on patrol in the area of West End Avenue when they saw a 2019 Jeep Compass, bearing a Pennsylvania license plate, driving in the area. The officers were aware that the vehicle was reported as carjacked at gunpoint earlier in the evening in Morrisville PA. The officers attempted to stop the vehicle when the driver of the Jeep accelerated and drove away. Officers Heredia and Hebert continued to pursue the carjacked Jeep through the City of Trenton, onto Rt 195, then onto Rt 130. The pursuit ended when the Jeep ran out of gas on Rt 130 south in Robbinsville. The New Jersey State Police and Robbinsville Police Department assisted the Trenton Police Department to bring this incident to a peaceful conclusion.
Taken into custody and charged was:
Christopher R. Hersey, 30-year-old male from General Greene Ave. in Trenton
Eluding (2nd degree) 2C:29-2b
Several motor vehicle violations
New Jersey State Police Sgt. Philip Curry of the Public Information Unit told MidJersey.news that, on Thursday, April 22, at 10:15 p.m. Trenton Police Department notified the New Jersey State Police that they were engaged in a pursuit with a stolen vehicle that was heading out of Trenton.
Troopers joined the pursuit as it continued on I-195 before the suspect vehicle exited the highway and traveled through multiple jurisdictions. During the pursuit, the suspect vehicle struck two marked pursuing NJSP vehicles.
The pursuit concluded on US-130 south MP 65 in Robbinsville Township where the suspect, Christopher Hersey, 30, of Trenton, N.J. was arrested.
Hersey was charged with aggravated assault, possession of a weapon for unlawful purposes, criminal mischief and was lodged at the Mercer County Jail.
Christopher R. Hersey, 30-year-old male from General Greene Ave. in Trenton
Video of pursuit in Trenton by Waterfront Park-Arm and Hammer Stadium on Route 29 Video by MidJersey.news reader Jacqueline Leslie
BREAKING NEWS REPORT: This is a breaking news report from radio reports, on scene information, and sources. Once official information is available, the post will be updated.
TRENTON (MERCER)– A police pursuit involving multiple jurisdictions occurred late Thursday night following a carjacking of a Jeep Compass in Trenton.
Trenton Police called the pursuit around 10:00 pm, after a reported carjacking in the city. State Police joined the chase once the suspect vehicle got onto I-195. The vehicle continued to flee Eastbound on I-195 to Route 537 in Jackson, where he turned back around and went Westbound. The suspect exited I-195 into Hamilton, where he fled down Klockner Road and got onto Route 130. The pursuit continued on Route 130 Northbound to South Brunswick, where the suspect then turned around again, going South on Route 130. The suspect was reported to be armed with a gun. The vehicle reached speeds of 130 miles per hour while running red lights, and reportedly crashed into a few State Police troop cars during the pursuit.
The chase finally came to an end at about 11:03 pm in front of the A&M Market on Route 130 in Robbinsville. One male was taken into custody and transported to the hospital.
Vehicle drove though several towns including, Trenton, Hamilton Township, Robbinsville Township, Upper Freehold Township, Millstone Township, Jackson Township, East Windsor, Cranbury, South Brunswick, North Brunswick.
This is a developing story. Check back for more info.
Pursuit comes to an end on Rt 130 in Robbinsville
Suspect vehicle on I-195 East Bound at the Robbinsville – Hamilton Township border.
Suspect vehicle in Upper Freehold Township West Bound on I-195 heading into Robbinsville.
Suspect vehicle heading Southbound on Route 130 in South Brunswick.
CRANBURY TOWNSHIP, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Chief Michael J. Owens of the Cranbury Police Department announced that authorities are investigating a warehouse fire.
On January 19, 2021, at approximately 11:27 P.M., officers of the Cranbury Police Department along with members of several fire departments and first aid crews responded to an Amazon warehouse on Hightstown-Cranbury Station Road following a report of smoke in the building. The fire was located and extinguished. No one is reported injured at this time.
The investigation is active and continuing. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Sergeant Greg Pfremmer of the Cranbury Township Police Department at (609) 395-0031 or Detective Kevin Schroeck of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office at (732) 745-4194.
CRANBURY TOWNSHIP, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Around 11:30 pm a fire broke out inside the Amazon Warehouse TEB6 located at 22 Hightstown-Cranbury Station Road. Firefighters arrived and found a heavy smoke condition pushing from the south-west side of the warehouse. Employees were outside and evacuated to the parking lot covered in space type blankets to keep warm. Firefighters put two lines in operation and the fire was reported “extinguished” at 12:27 am. Two or three aerial units laddered the building to open sky lights and any possible vents in the roof to remove smoke. There was extensive overhaul of the fire and units were still being called to the scene at 2:00 am.
The warehouse by Google Maps satellite measurement is approximately 560 feet wide by 1,765 feet for an estimated 988,400 square feet in size. Photos from prior events at the warehouse posted online show that the building has “rack storage” inside and storage like that is usually protect by ESFR sprinklers (Early Suppression Fast Response sprinklers). If a rack storage would catch fire the ESFR sprinkler system would activate sending thousands of gallons per minute onto the fire, the fire would be extinguished or held in check until firefighters could arrive to finish extinguishing the fire.
The partial list of fire departments dispatched and/or involved so far are and fire is quite possibly a 2 or 3 alarms in size equivalent: Cranbury Fire Company, Hightstown Fire Company, East Windsor # 1 and # 2, Robbinsville Township Fire Department, West Windsor Fire Company, Princeton Junction Fire Company, Plainsboro Fire Department, Monroe Township Fire Department, South Brunswick-Monmouth Junction and Kendall Park, Jamesburg Fire Company, North Brunswick and East Brunswick. More departments were still being added as of 2:18 am. for covers. Hamilton Township Fire Department was added at 2:39 am for a cover. (This list included fire departments dispatched that may not have made it to the scene for man power or were diverted to cover other firehouses in the area)
Two ambulances stood by during the firefight but there were not known reports of injuries to firefighters or workers at the facility.
Jenna Hilzenrath, Amazon Spokesperson said in a statement ““We can confirm that there was a fire at our fulfillment center in Cranbury, New Jersey last night. There’s nothing more important than the health and safety of our employees and we’re grateful that all our employees are safe and accounted for. We thank our local fire department for their quick response.”
Amazon also said that employees waited at a designated evacuation point before being sent home with pay. We’ll continue to work with the local Fire Department to ensure that the building is safe before reopening later today.
ROBBINSVILLE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–The members of the Robbinsville Township Police Department PBA #344 have been running a “No Shave November” for years. Officers normally are clean shaven, but during the month of November, they are allowed to grow a beard with a donation to a fund that raises money for a good cause. This year, they were joined with the East Windsor Township Police PBA #192, Hopewell Police PBA #342, and Cranbury Police PBA #405, to raise money for Tyler Odman who has a rare stage 4 cancer called Hepatoblastoma.
The collective efforts of the four Police Benevolent Associations of Robbinsville, East Windsor, Hopewell and Cranbury raised $9,660 so far. Tonight, a check was presented to the family at the Robbinsville Township Police Station.
Robbinsville Township Police Department PBA # 344, East Windsor Township Police PBA #192, Hopewell Police PBA # 342 and Cranbury Police PBA # 405 present Tyler and his family a check for $9,660.00 for help battling childhood cancer.
A “siren parade” was held for Tyler on September 25, 2020 where police, fire and EMS departments from Mercer County and Middlesex County showed their support.
A “siren parade” was held for Tyler on September 25, 2020 where police, fire and EMS departments from Mercer County and Middlesex County showed their support.
As some of you may already know, Heather and Jason’s world has been shifted and forever changed by the recent cancer diagnosis for their son Tyler. Doctors recently found a tumor on Tyler’s liver called Hepatoblastoma.
In early July, Tyler was having fevers and not feeling well. After 3 weeks of him not feeling well, his parents decided to take him to the hospital for additional testing. In the hospital, the doctors ordered an ultrasound for his abdomen. It was there that they learned Tyler had a mass on his liver.
That night Tyler was transferred to CHOP. Tyler quickly had blood work, MRI and CT scans, a PET scan, and a biopsy of his liver. On August 17, 2020 it was confirmed that Tyler’s tumor was Hepatoblastoma. He started chemotherapy soon after his diagnosis.
Fortunately, the scans have shown that the cancer is isolated to Tyler’s liver. Tyler has one very large mass, and several other masses all over his liver, which classifies his cancer as stage IV. Chemotherapy will be the beginning of Tyler’s journey. He will require a future surgery, followed by more chemotherapy.
Tyler has been a rockstar at every single doctors appointment and chemotherapy treatment. He loves to help the doctors and nurses. When he is home from treatment, he enjoys playing outside with his twin brother Chase, eating Chinese food, and chips.
Heather and Jason have a long road ahead to ensure that Tyler receives the best treatment. He has a busy schedule between blood work appointments, physical therapy, chemotherapy, and various hospital stays. Heather has already taken a leave of absence from work in order to care for Tyler and support his treatment.
Tyler is a strong little boy, and Heather and Jay are the best parents he could possibly have, who will fight alongside him. That being said, they can’t do this alone! So many people have asked how they can help, right now – this is it. The donations will help with covering insurance costs, medical bills, physical therapy copays, prescription costs, meals at the hospital, gas, tolls, and coffee for mom and dad. Any donation will help take some of the burden that comes along with extensive medical treatment, so they can focus on Tyler and Chase.
Although this type of cancer is rare, it is treatable and curable. Tyler has a wonderful team of doctors at CHOP. Tyler has a long road ahead of him, but his positive attitude keeps everyone going each day. Tyler is our super hero!!!
Please keep Tyler in your prayers. All the continued support you can offer will be forever appreciated by the Odman Family.
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Sgt. Philip Curry of the New Jersey State Police Public Information Bureau told MidJersey.News that yesterday at approximately 9:51 p.m., NJ State Troopers attempted to stop a Chevrolet Tahoe, later discovered to be stolen from New York, for a traffic violation on the New Jersey Turnpike inside of Interchange 10, Edison Twp., Middlesex County.
The driver refused to stop and fled onto the Turnpike southbound inner roadway at a high rate of speed. The vehicle continued south before exiting the Turnpike at Interchange 8A and proceeded to intentionally strike a NJ State Police vehicle before becoming disabled on Cranbury South River Road in South Brunswick, N.J.
Troopers removed the two occupants from the vehicle and placed them under arrest. There were no serious injuries reported.
The driver, Ryan Williams, 25, of Bronx, N.Y., was charged with receiving stolen property, eluding, possession of marijuana, possession with the intent to distribute marijuana, possession of a distributable amount of drug paraphernalia, money laundering, criminal mischief, resisting arrest, aggravated assault, and driving under the influence. The passenger, Twinkle Murray, 29, of Bronx, N.Y., was charged with receiving stolen property. Williams was lodged in the Middlesex County Jail pending a detention hearing, and Murray was released pending a court appearance, according to NJ State Police.
The scene last night in South Brunswick Township after a police pursuit ends at 1100 Cranbury-South River Road. A host of charges have been filed against two individuals that were arrested at the scene.
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–A pursuit for an unknown reason started on the New Jersey Turnpike south bound prior to the 80 mile marker. The vehicle being pursued exited Exit 8A in Monroe Township, the pursuit ended in the driveway of 1100 Cranbury-South River Road in South Brunswick Township about a 1/2 Mile from Exit 8A. Sources say that two suspects were in custody. No further information is available tonight, this is a developing story so check back for further information once it is released. (according to mapping software 1100 Cranbury-South River Road is South Brunswick Township 300 feet from the Monroe Twp. border but street address is listed as Monroe Twp.)
The scene tonight in the 1000 Block of Cranbury-South River Road in South Brunswick Township.
CRANBURY, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Chief Michael J. Owens of the Cranbury Police Department announced today that a fatal collision near the intersection of Route 130 North and South River Road is under investigation.
The initial investigation conducted by Sergeant Douglas Mayer of the Cranbury Police Department and Detective Jonathan Berman of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office determined the collision occurred this morning at approximately 5:48 A.M. The collision involved three vehicles and resulted in the deaths of two people whose identities are being withheld pending notification to the next of kin. Four other individuals were transported from the scene to two nearby hospitals for medical attention.
The investigation is active and continuing. Anyone with information is asked to call Sergeant Mayer of the Cranbury Police Department at (609) 395-0031 ext. 7726 or Detective Berman of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office at (732) 745-4328.
Cranbury Police and numerous emergency personnel are on scene of a serious motor vehicle crash with injuries on US 130 Northbound and Southbound between Half Acre Road and Dey Road. In addition, the South River Road Jug Handle is closed and access is denied south bound on South River Road approaching the area.
Rush hour traffic will be affected, as heavy delays are expected as the investigation continues. Plan alternate routes of travel.
CRANBURY TOWNSHIP, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Around 6:00 am a serious accident occurred in the 2600 Block of Route 130 near South River Road (CR535) involving what appeared to be 3 vehicles. Cranbury Township Police, Cranbury Fire Department, Cranbury First Aid Squad were sent to the scene for serious injures and reported entrapment. Mutual aid from several surround towns were called to the scene for assistance. Initial reports were that several have sustained life threatening and serious injures. There is no word on current condition of those involved but a press release is expected later today.
The Cranbury Police Department and NJ DOT has the roadway closed North Bound at South River Road and is detoured in the area. The South Brunswick Police Department, NJ State Police and Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office is assisting in the crash investigation and the roadway is expected to be closed at least another few hours. There may be a temporary closure of the south bound lanes once measurements are needed so avoid the area if possible.
The Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office has responded to assist the Cranbury PD with the investigation and confirms that a press release will be issued sometime today.
Rt 130 northbound all lanes closed South of Half Acre Rd in Cranbury due to a crash investigation and downed wires. Follow detour or plan alternate route
