Category: Upper Freehold

Allentown, Allentown, Monmouth County, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

Upper Freehold Swears in New Firefighters

April 21, 2021

ALLENTOWN – UPPER FREEHOLD TWP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–On April 19th, 2021 Upper Freehold Township held a very small ceremony where 3 New Firefighters were sworn in by Business Administrator Dana Tyler at the fire station. After the new personnel were sworn in each Firefighter was “Pinned” by a close family member. The “Pinning” is the placing of the Firefighter’s Official Badge of Service on their uniform for the first time, as they begin their service for our community. Due to COVID-19 restrictions the event was limited to immediate family of the 3 Firefighters, co-workers, and representatives from local fire departments.

Firefighter Scott Royle took the position of Captain, charged with oversight of the Fire & Emergency Services for Upper Freehold Township and The Borough of Allentown under the direction of The Township Committee. Captain Royle comes to us with 18 years of experience at various agencies in Monmouth County. He is a US Navy Veteran and worked in the private fire investigation industry prior to coming to us. He continues to volunteer with the Matawan Fire Department and is a great asset to the town.

Firefighter Nick Brown a resident of Eatontown, NJ. He volunteered with Eatontown Fire Department, Tinton Falls Fire Department, & Eatontown Emergency Medical Services before coming to Upper Freehold Township. He has been a firefighter since 2015. He worked Per-Diem for South Wall Fire Rescue since 2019 and with us since early 2020, before being offered a spot as a full-time firefighter.

Firefighter Blake Nebbia grew up in the Upper Freehold Twp. and Allentown area. He has lived here for 17 years. He joined Hope Fire Company 9 years ago and has work extremely hard to get to this spot. Firefighter Nebbia is a graduate of Allentown High School and worked for Upper Freehold School District till he was offered a full-time position. He also worked Per Diem with Ewing Township as a firefighter.

  • Fire Service Representatives present: (L to R): Hamilton Battalion Chief Ferdinand Mather, Hope FC Chief Joe Petrella, UFT Firefighter Nebbia, Robbinsville Firefighter Ryan Frank, UFT Firefighter Brown, UFT Firefighter Jakob, Captain Royle, & Hope FC President Alex Nebbia (Children Sadie Royle & Kevin O’Donnell 3rd)
  • Firefighters (L to R) Ryan Frank (Robbinsville Fire Department), Blake Nebbia, Kevin O’Donnell (child), Nick Brown, Matthew Jakob, Scott Royle, & daughter Sadie Royle
  • Firefighter Blake Nebbia being “pinned” by his Girlfriend Madison Mather
  • (L to R) Madison Mather (Girlfriend), Firefighter Blake Nebbia, Valerie Nebbia (Mother), Todd Nebbia (Father), HFC President Alex Nebbia (Brother)
  • (L to R) Firefighter Nicholas Brown, Sabrina Perez, Kevin O’Donnell, Kevin O’Donnell 3rd, & Dana Tyler, Upper Freehold Township Administrator
  • (L to R) Ms. Sabrina Perez (FF Brown’s Fiancé) Firefighter Nicholas Brown, Kevin O’Donnell 3rd, & Kevin O’Donnell (brother in-law)
  • Captain Royle being “Pinned” with Family.
  • Captain Scott Royle with his wife Tracey & daughter Sadie
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Allentown, Allentown, High School, Monmouth County, Special Events, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

Stone Bridge Middle School, True North Robotics Team

April 19, 2021

ALLENTOWN, UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–This year a competitive Lego robotics team was established at Stone Bridge Middle School. Melissa Domen, the business leader of the Allentown high school robotics team, is the founder of the middle school team.

The name of the middle school team, True North Robotics, unites Stone Bridge Middle School’s motto of “Finding your True North” with the students’ passion for robotics. With the guidance of high school students on Redbird Robotics, 14 middle school students have learned programming, building, and teamwork skills, while having a successful rookie season this year so far.

On Feb. 13, 2021, True North Robotics did an outstanding job at the virtual Qualifying Event competition and headed to the virtual Southern NJ District Championship competition on April 10. The team received the Robot Design Award and the Breakthrough Award. At the Qualifying Event, the students placed fifth and sixth in the robot challenge game. At the Southern NJ District Championship competition, the students won the Rising Star Award and held an overall score well above the average for a rookie team.

Participating teams were judged on four different components during the competition including the Robot Game, a Robot Design Presentation, an Innovation Project Presentation, and a Core Values activity. For the Robot Game and Robot Design, the team built and programmed two different robots made out of Legos to complete a series of obstacles in 2.5 minutes. For the Innovation Project, True North Robotics invented and created prototypes of special swimming gear to help prevent swimmer’s ear and a mobile gym to encourage everyone to be more active.

In February 2020, Melissa Domen was awarded a grant by the Upper Freehold Regional Education Foundation to start True North Robotics. Since middle school level robotics competitions have a limit of 10 team members per team, True North Robotics split into two smaller competition teams. One competition team is called True North Robotics Impact and has eight students (Aaryan Desai, Ioanna Varouhakis, Vishek Desai, Luke Greenbaum, Taylor Lalla, Elena Mathew, Theo Renzulli, Jeremy George) , and the other competition team is called True North Robotics Innovation and has six students (Sean Gavin, Mia Laudien, Remy Fortsch, Aarav Patnaik, Benjamin Utset, Sienna Jones). Each of the smaller group team names are named after the Core Values of FIRST: Discovery, Innovation, Impact, Inclusion, Teamwork, Fun, Coopertition, and Gracious Professionalism.

The nonprofit organization FIRST stands for For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology. FIRST runs many types of robotics competitions for different grade levels from PreK through 12th grade. Both True North Robotics and Allentown High School Redbird Robotics are FIRST robotics competition teams. The True North Robotics’s competition level is called FIRST Lego League, and the Allentown High School Redbird Robotics’s competition level is called FIRST Robotics Competition.

What makes this team unique compared to other middle school robotics teams is that this team is 100% student run. Shane Conlin, Amelia Tricker, and Liam Granaghan are current Allentown high school students on the Redbird Robotics team and have been helping the True North Robotics team this season. Mr. Mark Guterl, Mrs. Stefanie Folino and Mr. Brian Myslinski have also been a great support for the team since its start. It has certainly been a team effort to get this team up in running with success. It has been quite an experience starting up a new competitive robotics team during a pandemic. The season kicked off in the summer of 2020 with online meetings. Students learned several skills like coding a robot, building robots, robotics competitions, the culture of the FIRST organization, and high school robotics. The end of the summer was also spent meeting in-person to build robots and obstacles made out of Legos. Safety measures such as social distancing and sanitizing were practiced at every single meeting. Both online and in-person meetings were held four days a week throughout the school year. Usually the competition season for middle school robotics starts in August and ends in December. But with it being a new team in a pandemic, this year’s season started in June 2020 and will be continuing until the end of April 2021. Soon, the team will start planning next year’s season. The team is always looking for new Stone Bridge Middle School students to apply for the team. Also, if you are a local individual or business that would like to get involved with the Upper Freehold Regional School District Robotics Teams, please email 1807frc@gmail.com


The two Stonebridge Middle School robotics teams (pictured) have help from the high school robotics team, including junior Melissa Domen (second from right), who founded the teams. Photos provided.
Monmouth County, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

Another Accident On Route 524 Curve Near TSC

March 21, 2021

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–A car lost control struck a utility pole on CR Route 524 severing it, causing wires to fall to the ground this morning at a curve known for serous accidents over the years.

The Hope Fire Company of Allentown, NJ State Police and Capital Health EMS were dispatched around 9:35 a.m. for an overturned vehicle near Tractor Supply Company. Upon arrival of EMS it was determined that there were no injures in the accident but wires from the down pole were across the roadway. Hope Fire Company and NJSP closed the CR Route 524 roadway from the 2nd driveway at Tractor Supply to Sharon Station Road. Barricades were called for from Monmouth County Highway Department to shut roadway until the repairs can be made.

A known curve with serious accidents over the years and recently on November 21, 2020 a similar accident occurred. The curve is posted at 35 MPH it is unknown why the vehicle lost control at this time.

November 21, 2020 accident here: Crash Knocks Out Power In Part Of Upper Freehold

Monmouth County, Ocean County, Toms River, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

Driver DWI Hits NJ State Police Vehicle At Emergency Scene

January 3, 2021

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Trooper Alejandro Goez from the NJSP Public Information Bureau told MidJersey.news: At 8:16 pm last night, troopers attempted to stop a Nissan Altima for a traffic violation eastbound on I-195 at Mile Post 11 in Upper Freehold Township. The driver failed to stop and troopers using lights and sirens pursued the vehicle. A short time later, the vehicle stopped in the median in the area of Mile Post 12.4.

The driver was arrested and troopers moved the vehicle to a safer location on the right shoulder to continue the investigation. The driver, Joel Morales, 23, of Toms River, NJ, was later charged with eluding and various traffic offenses.

During the on-scene investigation, the right lane was shutdown and a troop car with emergency lights was parked in the right lane. At approximately, 8:37 pm a Chevy Equinox traveling eastbound struck the parked troop car. The troop car was unoccupied at the time. Troopers determined the driver, Michael Costantino, 36, of Staten Island, NY, was under the influence and arrested him for DWI. No injuries were reported to the driver.

MidJersey.News has put out reminders over and over again to SLOW DOWN AND MOVE OVER at emergency scenes. If you are unfamiliar with NJ Move Over Law you can review it here: Slow Down, Move Over! National Move Over Day

Monmouth County, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

Route 539 Closed Due To Accident Involving Utility Pole

Route 539 Closed between Burlington Path Road (by Rick’s Saddle Shop) and Davis Station Road, follow local detours in the area.

January 3, 2021

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–A tow truck traveling north in the area of the 200 Block of County Road Route 539 lost control and hit a utility pole before coming to a rest in the front yard of a home in the area. The utility pole was cut off from the bottom and caused low hanging wires over Route 539. The Hope Fire Company of Allentown and Allentown EMS responded to the scene. It was reported the driver of the truck was out of the vehicle and uninjured. Hope Fire Company members directed traffic in the area until Monmouth County Road Department responded with barricades to shut the roadway. JCP&L was responding but not on location at the time of this report. Expect the roadway to be closed for hours until the utility pole can be replaced.

Currently Route 539 Closed between Burlington Path Road (by Rick’s Saddle Shop) and Davis Station Road (IFO Cream Ridge Golf Course), follow local detours in the area.

Mercer County, Monmouth County, Robbinsville, Robbinsville, State of NJ, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

Nor’easter Hits Area, Do Not Travel Tonight If Possible

December 16, 2020

A Nor’easter storm is pounding the area with snow, sleet, hail and mixed with rain at times. Numerous accidents and cars off roadways have been reported in the area in the slippery conditions. Police departments are asking residents not to travel if possible due to the conditions.

Robbinsville Township: There will be a delayed opening of Township Offices until 10:30 am. Robbinsville garbage collection that was normally scheduled for Thursday December 17 will now be picked up on Saturday December 19.

Monmouth County Highway Department was out salting the roadways prior to the storm this afternoon in Upper Freehold Township.
Monmouth County Highway Department snowplowing Old York Road
Tonight’s travel conditions, do not travel if possible.

NWS Snow totals as of 9:55 pm: 

...Mercer County...
 Princeton                    6.4 in    0900 PM 12/16   Public               
 Pennington                   5.5 in    0900 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 1 WSW Ewing                  5.0 in    0744 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 Ewing                        4.2 in    0655 PM 12/16   Public               
 Hamilton Twp                 3.0 in    0600 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 West Windsor Twp.            2.5 in    0630 PM 12/16   Public               
 2 ENE Hamilton Twp           2.0 in    0630 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 1 SW Robbinsville Twp.       2.0 in    0600 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 
 ...Middlesex County...
 Edison                       5.5 in    0740 PM 12/16   Public               
 North Brunswick              5.0 in    0830 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 Old Bridge                   5.0 in    0815 PM 12/16   Public               
 Metuchen                     4.6 in    0840 PM 12/16   Public               
 Parlin                       4.5 in    0800 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 1 SSW Plainsboro Township    4.2 in    0659 PM 12/16   NWS Employee         
 Perth Amboy                  4.0 in    0800 PM 12/16   Public               
 South Brunswick              4.0 in    0720 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 East Brunswick               2.5 in    0600 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 South Plainfield             2.5 in    0600 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 1 NNE New Brunswick          1.6 in    0600 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 Woodbridge                   1.5 in    0600 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 Carteret                     1.3 in    0600 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 
 ...Monmouth County...
 Holmdel                      7.0 in    0900 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 Howell                       6.1 in    0830 PM 12/16   Public               
 1 S Howell                   6.0 in    0605 PM 12/16   Public               
 Manalapan Twp                5.8 in    0838 PM 12/16   Public               
 Rumson                       5.5 in    0830 PM 12/16   Public               
 1 N Eatontown                4.5 in    0910 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 Freehold Twp                 4.5 in    0715 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 Freehold                     4.0 in    0615 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 Middletown                   4.0 in    0824 PM 12/16   Public               
 Tinton Falls                 3.5 in    0847 PM 12/16   Public               
 Leonardo                     2.1 in    0920 PM 12/16   Public               
 Cliffwood Beach              1.8 in    0600 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 Wall Twp                     1.8 in    0529 PM 12/16   Broadcast Media      
 Atlantic Highlands           1.2 in    0548 PM 12/16   Public               
 Oakhurst                     0.8 in    0650 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter     
...Ocean County...
 Jackson                      7.0 in    0900 PM 12/16   Public               
 Manchester Twp               4.1 in    0705 PM 12/16   Public               
 Lakewood                     4.0 in    0610 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 1 NE Toms River              3.0 in    0830 PM 12/16   Public               
 Whiting                      0.7 in    0715 PM 12/16   Public               
 Brick                        0.5 in    0600 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
...Burlington County...
 Chesterfield                 6.5 in    0800 PM 12/16   Public               
 Evesham Twp                  6.0 in    0600 PM 12/16   Public               
 Riverton                     6.0 in    0630 PM 12/16   Public               
 Bordentown Twp               5.7 in    0730 PM 12/16   Public               
 Browns Mills                 5.5 in    0544 PM 12/16   Public               
 Mount Laurel                 5.1 in    0530 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 Medford                      5.0 in    0730 PM 12/16   Public               
 Moorestown                   5.0 in    0820 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 1 WNW Burlington             4.9 in    0600 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 2 E Columbus                 4.8 in    0600 PM 12/16   Public               
 Lumberton                    4.7 in    0718 PM 12/16   Public               
 Burlington Twp               4.5 in    0650 PM 12/16   Public               
 1 NE Burlington Twp          4.5 in    0645 PM 12/16   NWS Employee         
 Hainesport                   4.5 in    0700 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 Bordentown                   4.4 in    0730 PM 12/16   Public               
 1 ENE Westampton Twp         4.1 in    0530 PM 12/16   Official NWS Obs     
 Burlington                   4.0 in    0500 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 Delanco                      4.0 in    0550 PM 12/16   Public               
 Marlton                      4.0 in    0500 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 2 SW Medford                 4.0 in    0445 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 Southampton Twp              4.0 in    0627 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 Roebling                     3.5 in    0530 PM 12/16   Public               
 2 E Delran                   3.0 in    0600 PM 12/16   Public               
 1 SE Fort Dix                3.0 in    0529 PM 12/16   Public               
 Shamong                      3.0 in    0444 PM 12/16   Public               
 Florence                     2.9 in    0645 PM 12/16   Trained Spotter      
 Delran                       2.8 in    0447 PM 12/16   Public               
 Pemberton                    0.5 in    0215 PM 12/16   Public
Monmouth County, State of NJ, Upper Freehold

UPDATE: NJ Fire Museum Stolen Trailer Recovered With $5,000 Of Damage, Go Fund Me Set Up For Repair Costs

December 14, 2020

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–New Jersey Engine and Equipment Museum Inc (NJ Fire Museum) stolen trailer has been recovered but there is $5,000. worth of damage to the trailer. A “Go Fund Me” has been set up to help the NJ Fire Museum collect donations to help pay for the damage to the trailer.

Replace damaged wheels/rims
Replace tires
Replace fender
Replace door locking mechanisms
Body damaged fixed and painted

Go Fund Me page here

November 2, 2020 MidJersey.News story here: Trailer Stolen From NJ Fire Museum

Mercer County, Monmouth County, Robbinsville, Robbinsville, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

Traffic Alert: Old York Road Closed Due To Accident

December 13, 2020

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Around 6:30 am a vehicle traveling in the 1300 Block of Old York Road lost control hit a pole and ended up coming to rest in a sod farm field. The impact of the crash cut a utility pole in half and left wires across the roadway closing the road.

The driver of the vehicle was temporarily trapped but was able to self-extricate himself out of the vehicle though the passenger’s side of vehicle. Members of Hope Fire Company are on scene providing traffic control and working on containing a small gasoline leak from the vehicle. Capital Health EMS responded to the scene and the driver did not want transport to the hospital.

At the time of this report Old York Road is closed between Herbert Road and Hluchy Roads. NJ State Police are investigating the crash. Robbinsville Township Police were also assisting with traffic control at Herbert Road and Old York. Monmouth County Highway Department was responding with barricades to close the roadway for the utility pole replacement. Monmouth County Hazardous Materials Team was notified and sending a representative to the scene for the gasoline leak.

Monmouth County, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

Car Hits Tree On I-195 In Upper Freehold

December 5, 2020

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Around 8:23 am a vehicle traveling east bound on I-195 in the area of mile marker 14 ran off road and hit a tree. The vehicle came to rest back on the highway partly blocking one lane. The Hope Fire Company of Allentown was dispatched for a vehicle smoking and possibly on fire. Upon arrival there were no reported injures but there was a large amount of debris left on the roadway.

Firefighters from Hope Fire Company helped clear the roadway and set up apparats to close the a lane down while a tow truck removed the vehicle. The NJ State Police were on scene investigating the crash. No further details are available at this time.

Monmouth County, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

Crash Knocks Out Power In Part Of Upper Freehold

November 21, 2020

Update: Power was restored by 6:45 pm

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Around 3:15 pm a vehicle lost control crashed into a utility pole and came to rest in a farm field on County Road 524 near Tractor Supply. Hope Fire Company of Allentown and Millstone Township Fire Departments were sent to the scene, a Robbinsville Township Fire Department Ambulance was also on scene. A utility pole was severed at the bottom and wires wrapped up in the vehicle. Power was out in the area and JCP&L Outage Map showed between 501 and 1,500 customers without power with an estimated restoration time of 8:00 pm.

Hope Fire Company reports on their Facebook Page: Route 524 will be closed from Sharon Station Rd to Imlaystown Hightstown Road for an unknown period of time due to a damaged utility pole with primaries down. Please use alternate route.

Mercer County, Monmouth County, Robbinsville, Robbinsville, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

Get Out And Enjoy Unseasonably Warm Weather With Current High Of 77F This Afternoon

November 10, 2020

ROBBINSVILLE-UPPER FREEHOLD, (MERCER/MONMOUTH)–At 1:30 pm the weather is mostly sunny, and 77F (as measured from Joint Base MDL) and unseasonably warm today, so get out and enjoy it while you can. Normal average temperature for this day in November is 56F with a low of 40F.

This pair of bald eagles was seen this afternoon flying back and fourth between Robbinsville Township and Upper Freehold Township and appeared to be enjoying the weather.

Pair of bald eagles enjoying the 77F unseasonably warm weather this afternoon flying back and fourth between Robbinsville Township and Upper Freehold Township.

Monmouth County, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

Accident on I-195 In Upper Freehold Township This Morning

Also 2 other calls this month Hope Fire Company has responded to below.

November 6, 2020

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–NJ State Police Sgt. Philip Curry told MidJersey.News that a crash occurred at 5:59am on I-195 eastbound Mile Post 8.8 in Upper Freehold Township.  A black Mazda ran off the road and overturned.  The driver was transported to Capital Health with non-life threatening injuries.

Hope Fire Company and Capital Health EMS responded to the scene.

I-195 November 6, 2020 at 5:59 am, NJSP reports non-life threating injures from the accident.

NJ State Police, Hope Fire Company and Capital Health EMS also responded to a car into a tree on Sharon Station Road on November 2, 2020. There was one injury in the accident person was transported to a local area hospital.

NJ State Police, Hope Fire Company and Capital Health EMS also responded to a car into a tree on Sharon Station Road on November 2, 2020. There was one injury in the accident person was transported to a local area hospital.

The Hope Fire Company of Allentown responded to a electrical shed on fire on the Gamblers Ridge Golf Course during rainy and stormy conditions. The fire was reported on November 1, 2020 at 6:42 pm and was quickly extinguished by Hope Fire Company members.

The Hope Fire Company of Allentown responded to a electrical shed on fire on the Gamblers Ridge Golf Course during rainy and stormy conditions. The fire was reported on November 1, 2020 at 6:42 pm and was quickly extinguished by Hope Fire Company members.
Allentown, Allentown, East Windsor, East Windsor, Ewing, Ewing, Fire and Emergency Service, Hamilton, Hamilton, Hightstown, Hightstown, Hightstown-East Windsor, Hopewell, Lawrence, Mercer County, Monmouth County, Pennington, Princeton, Robbinsville, Robbinsville, Trenton, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold, West Windsor, West Windsor

Mercer County Firemen’s Association 2020 Memorial Service

November 5, 2020

HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–The Mercer County Firemen’s Association 2020 Memorial Service that was originally scheduled for May 6, 2020 was postponed several times due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. This year’s Memorial Service was held at Colonial Fire Company Hamilton Township Station 18 and was hosted by Union Fire Company Hopewell Township Station 53. Hamilton Township Station 18 has a large hall and is big enough to hold the service while complying with COVID-19 guidelines.

The annual Memorial Service is held to honor members of Mercer County Firemen’s Ladies Auxiliary and Firefighters in Mercer County. All fire departments in Mercer County are represented and Hope Fire Company of Allentown, Monmouth County is also a member.

This year’s Memorial Roll was read honored 14 Ladies Auxiliary members and 36 firefighters. As each name is read a white carnation is placed in a Maltese cross and firefighters salute and family members stand as the name of their loved one is read.

2020 Mercer County Firemen’s Association Memorial Service. Video by Dick Cunningham, Broadcast Productions-East Windsor Station 46
Scenes from the 2020 Mercer County Firemen’s Memorial Service. Photos by: Dennis Symons, Robbinsville Township Fire Department (Ret.)
Monmouth County, New Egypt, Ocean County, Plumsted, Plumsted Twp, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

County Road 539 at CR 537 Closed Due To Dump Truck Accident And Fuel Spill Clean Up

October 30, 2020

PLUMSTED TOWNSHIP, NJ (OCEAN)–About 7:15 the New Egypt Fire Department (Ocean County Plumsted Station 39) and Hope Fire Company of Allentown were dispatched to County Road 539 by County Road 537 for a dump truck vs a Ford Explorer. Upon arrival it was determined to be on the Ocean County side of the line. As a result of the accident a fuel spill from the truck caused the roadway to be closed for clean up. Fire and HAZ-MAT crews are on scene working to clean up the fuel sill.

This is from on scene reporting and radio reports. Once Plumsted Township Police release information the story will be updated.

Monmouth County, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

Serious Accident In Upper Freehold Township

October 25, 2020

UPPER FREEHOLD, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The New Jersey State Police, Hope Fire Company, Capital Health EMS, New Egypt Fire Company and First Aid Squad all responded to a serious accident yesterday afternoon. Millstone Township Fire Department was called for a landing zone for a medical helicopter.

According to NJ State Police Spokesperson Sgt. Lawrence Peele, the crash occurred Saturday afternoon at 4:33 pm on Arneytown-Hornerstown near Millstream Road in Upper Freehold Township. Preliminary information indicates that the driver of a Nissan Maxima lost control and overturned. The driver was transported by medevac to the Trauma Center at Capital Health Regional Medical Center in Trenton with non-life-threatening injuries.

Radio reports indicate that the fire department and EMS had to remove the person from the overturned auto that was in a gully. Fire and EMS set up a rope system with a stokes basket to get the person out of the gully.

The NJ State Police report the cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Bystander photo
Fishing, Hunting, Millstone, Millstone, Monmouth County, Outdoors, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

Water Lowered For Dam Repairs At Two Assunpink WMA Lakes

Dam repairs to take place at Stone Tavern Lake and Rising Sun Lake though December 1, 2020.

October 23, 2020

Dam repairs to take place at 2 Assunpink Wildlife Management Area Lakes: Stone Tavern Lake and Rising Sun Lake though December 1, 2020

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP-MILLSTONE TOWNSHP, NJ (MONMOUTH) –The Division is currently working on two dam repair projects on the Assunpink Wildlife Management Area. Stone Tavern and Rising Sun Lakes have been lowered approximately four feet to provide construction crews access to the dam and water control structures. Concrete work will be completed on the spillways and repairs to trash gates.

Both projects should be completed around December 1, at which time the lakes will be returned to their normal water levels. Access is currently open to these locations, however, it may be impacted by construction activities during the project. The Division will provide updates on the website should any changes regarding the completion date or access occur.

Both lakes have adequate depths to fully support the fish population during the duration of the project.

Stone Tavern Lake 10/23/2020
Rising Sun Lake 10/23/2020
Allentown, Allentown, Mercer County, Monmouth County, Robbinsville, Robbinsville, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

Update: 9mm Handgun With High Capacity Mag, CDS Recovered From Last Night’s Incident In Robbinsville And Allentown

October 21, 2020

By: Tyler Eckel

ALLENTOWN-ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MONMOUTH-MERCER)–Last night October 20, the Robbinsville Township Police reported a driver, driving erratically in Robbinsville. RTPD tried to stop the vehicle and after a short pursuit Robbinsville Police broke off the chase.

In Allentown, at 9:37 pm, Patrolman Daniel Dascoli attempted to initiate a motor vehicle stop of a 2010 Red Nissan Maxima, which was driving erratic in the Borough of Allentown. The driver who was later identified as Hector Rentas of Allentown, PA, failed to stop his vehicle and subsequently crashed on Old York Road in the area of Cliffwood Drive. The vehicle ended up crashing on the Robbinsville Township side of Old York Road.

Through the investigation Ptl. Dascoli discovered a loaded 9mm handgun with a high-capacity magazine within reach to the driver in plain view, as well as controlled dangerous substance in his possession.

Ptl. Dascoli observed several possible indicators of alchol consumption present. Rentas was transported to Captial Health Regional Medical Center in Trenton for a medical evaluation. Once released, Rentas was later charged with Unlaful Possession of a Firearm, Possession of a High-Capacity Magazine, Possession of Controlled Dangerous Substances and Eluding Police. Rentas was later lodged in Monmouth County Correctional Institution.

The Robbinsville Township Police Department was reviewing the incident and some charges could be pending in Robbinsville Township with same driver.

*** The media and public are reminded that criminal charges are merely accusations and that the defendants
are presumed innocent until proven guilty. ***

View last nights MidJersey.News story here: BREAKING: Gun And Drugs Recovered After Man Crashes Car Trying To Elude Police

Allentown, Allentown, Mercer County, Monmouth County, Robbinsville, Robbinsville, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

BREAKING: Gun And Drugs Recovered After Man Crashes Car Trying To Elude Police

View most recent MidJersey.News update of this story here: Update: 9mm Handgun With High Capacity Mag, CDS Recovered From Last Night’s Incident In Robbinsville And Allentown

BREAKING NEWS REPORT: From radio and on scene reporting. Once official police information becomes available the story will be updated with any additional information and any corrections made.

October 20, 2020

ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–A man driving erratically was trying to elude police tonight in Robbinsville. Police tried to stop the vehicle and gave a short chase but the chase was terminated for safety reasons. A short time later, the same vehicle fitting the description was again driving erratically in Allentown and fled north bound on Old York Road.

The vehicle appears to have lost control hit a tree and came to rest on the side of Old York Road.

The Hope Fire Company of Allentown, Allentown EMS, and Capital Health Paramedics responded to the scene.

Robbinsville’s K9 officer was called to the scene and a gun and drugs were recovered from the vehicle.

Robbinsville Township Police were on scene investigating. No official police details were available tonight.

Check back later tomorrow once further information becomes available the story will be updated with further details and any corrections made.

Monmouth County, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

Truck Fire On I-195 In Upper Freehold Twp.

October 14, 2020

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The Hope Fire Company of Allentown responded to a truck fire on I-195 East Bound at mile post 12.8 at 7:05 pm. Upon arrival a straight truck that carries water for a water delivery service was well involved near the rear axel and extending into the compartments. Soon after firefighters arrived the fire was quickly extinguished. Traffic was backed up 1 mile in the east bound direction to Exit 11. No injuries were reported in the fire. The roadway was temporarily closed until the fire was extinguished.

Monmouth County, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

Accident On I-195 In Upper Freehold

October 10, 2020

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–A little after 2:35 pm the Hope Fire Company of Allentown and Capital Health EMS was sent to I-195 for a 2 vehicle motor vehicle crash. Upon arrival firefighters and EMS found the vehicles on the west bound side just prior to Exit 8. EMS evaluated the occupants for injures, only reported as minor. Traffic was slowed in both directions mostly due to rubbernecking delays. No further information was available about the accident.

Allentown, Mercer County, Monmouth County, New Egypt, Ocean County, Plumsted, Plumsted Twp, Roosevelt, Trenton, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

Spit in a cop’s food or drink? That could be a felony under Dancer bill

October 9, 2020

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Assemblyman Ron Dancer has introduced legislation to deter people from repeating the vile act of spitting into a police officer’s food or drink. 

In July, the Park Ridge Police Department received an anonymous tip that Kevin Trejo, a Starbucks employee, was spitting into the coffee of officers who visited the establishment.  He was quickly arrested and later fired by the coffee chain.

Starbucks offered an apology, but Dancer feels more needs to be done.

“An apology is nice, but this should never happen in the first place,” said Dancer (R-Ocean). “Like everyone else, police officers have the right to expect fair and equal treatment and to be served safe food and drinks. Spitting in their drink is a disgusting and disrespectful act that could lead to an officer falling ill.” 

Dancer’s bill (A4765) would clarify that spitting on the food or into the drink of a law enforcement officer constitutes third-degree aggravated assault and would carry a sentence of three to five years with a mandatory fine of $15,000.

The bill would also require employers to suspend the employee if he is charged, and fire him if convicted. 

“If you commit a despicable act against an officer, like spitting in their drink, you should be arrested and, if convicted, be fired,” stated Dancer. “You are not fighting for social justice when you do something like this.  You are just being cruel. There is nothing heroic about spitting into an officer’s drink.” 

Assemblyman Ron Dancer
Aberdeen, Allentown, Allentown, Asbury Park, Atlantic Highlands, Belmar, Bradley Beach, Brielle, Deal, Eatontown, Englishtown, Farmingdale, Freehold, Hazlet, Highlands, Holmdel, Howell, Keansburg, Keyport, Lincroft, Little Silver, Long Branch, Manalapan, Marlboro, Matawan, Middletown, Millstone, Monmouth County, Neptune, Ocean, Oceanport, Red Bank, Roosevelt, Rumson, Union Beach, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold, Wall

Monmouth County Voting Information And Video Tutorial

October 8, 2020

Visit: https://www.monmouthcountyvotes.com/ for the latest voting information in Monmouth County

FREEHOLD, NJ (MONMOUTH)–As you may be aware, this year’s November General Election in New Jersey is being conducted primarily by mail-in ballots, per State mandate. On November 3, 2020, Election Day, limited polling locations will be open for voting on paper provisional ballots only, except for disabled voters. 

Voters across Monmouth County are receiving their mail-in ballots this week and are encouraged to contact the County Clerk’s Election Office at 732-431-7790, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with any questions about the delivery of their ballots. 

Due to this unprecedented change in our election process, Monmouth County Clerk Christine Giordano Hanlon has provided a comprehensive webpage on MonmouthCountyVotes.com, explaining this year’s election process.

In addition, our office has provided video tutorials, including an animated step-by-step video informing Monmouth County voters of how to properly complete and return their mail-in ballots. The tutorial also explains how the paper ballots are reviewed and verified by the Monmouth County Board of Elections.

The video can be viewed on our Facebook and YouTube pages. We encourage you to share this important information with your friends and neighbors.

Election Hotline Established to Secure Election Integrity

To help ensure free and fair elections in Monmouth County, the County Election Offices and Prosecutor’s Office have established an election hotline. To report any issues of voter fraud or misconduct in Monmouth County, residents can call the County Prosecutor’s Office hotline at 855-786-5878.

“Our democratic system of government depends on free and fair elections and, as such, election integrity and security is important to all of us,” said County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni and County Clerk Christine Giordano Hanlon. “For these reasons, our offices are working together to further safeguard the electoral process.”

Upcoming Dates and Voter Deadlines

  • Monday, October 12th: All County Offices closed in observance of Columbus Day
  • Tuesday, October 13th: Voter Registration Deadline for the November General Election
  • Friday, October 30th: Application Deadline for General Election Mail-In Ballots by Electronic Means for Qualified Overseas Civilian and Military Voters 
  • Tuesday, November 3rd: General Election Day!
  • Tuesday, November 3rd at 8 p.m.: Close of the polls; Deadline to deliver mail-in ballot by U.S. Postal Service mail, Drop Box, or in-person to the County Board of Elections at 300 Halls Mill Road in Freehold or at assigned Polling Place.

Monmouth County Secure Ballot Dropbox Locations:

LocationAddressEntry
1Aberdeen Municipal Building1 Aberdeen Square
Aberdeen, NJ 07747
2Allentown Borough Hall8 North Main Street
Allentown, NJ 08501
3Asbury Park City Hall1 Municipal Plaza
Asbury Park, NJ 07712		City Council Chambers (Bangs Avenue Entrance)
4Borough of Belmar Municipal Building601 Main Street
Belmar, NJ 07719
5Eatontown Borough Municipal Building47 Broad Street
Eatontown, NJ 07724		Rear Entrance
6Board of Elections Office300 Halls Mill Road
Freehold, NJ 07728		Side Entrance
7Hazlet Agency – NJ Motor Vehicle Commission1374 Highway 36
Hazlet, NJ 07730		Airport Plaza
8Howell Township Municipal Building4567 Route 9 North
Howell, NJ 07731		Rear Entrance
9Long Branch City Hall344 Broadway
Long Branch, NJ 07740
10Manalapan Township Municipal Building120 County Road 522
Manalapan, NJ 07726
11Middletown Municipal Building1 Kings Highway
Middletown Township, NJ 07748
12Croydon Hall900 Leonardville Road
Leonardo, NJ 07737
13Neptune Township Municipal Building25 Neptune Boulevard
Neptune, NJ 07753		Library Entrance
14Ocean Township Town Hall399 Monmouth Road
Oakhurst, NJ 07755
15Red Bank Borough Municipal Building90 Monmouth Street
Red Bank, NJ 07701
16Rumson Borough Hall80 East River Road
Rumson, NJ 07760
17Wall Township Municipal Building2700 Allaire Road
Wall, NJ 07719
Allentown, Allentown, Englishtown, Jackson, Mercer County, Middlesex County, Millstone, Millstone, Monmouth County, New Egypt, New Hanover, North Hanover, Ocean County, Old Bridge, Plumsted, Plumsted Twp, Roosevelt, Roosevelt, Trenton, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold, Wrightstown

Lawmaker Wants Restoring Public Utilities In Rural Areas To Be A Top Priority

October 1, 2020

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–The lengthy process of restoring public utilities after a major storm has been an issue plaguing rural residents for quite some time. Assemblyman Ron Dancer wants to ensure rural areas are given the same level of priority as the rest of the state and has introduced two bills speed up restoration after thunderstorms, snowstorms, and other major events. 

The first bill (A4761) would give public utilities and cable television companies the ability to use drones to survey damaged infrastructure.

“Drones are a powerful tool in assessing damage and assisting with repairs after a major storm,” said Dancer (R-Ocean). “Other states have allowed utility companies to use drones with much success. We cannot afford to continue to have slow restoration times, so it makes sense to allow the utility companies to use drones to speed up the process.”

Dancer’s second bill (A4763) would require the Board of Public Utilities to create new regulations to require that electric companies prioritize communities where at least 40 percent of residents rely on private wells for drinking water and septic systems for sanitary disposal of waste. Additionally, watering stations would also be required.

“Many people do not realize when a home in a rural area loses power, they often lose access to drinking water, as well as, flushing and refilling toilets,” said Dancer. “A priority restoration plan must be put into place to avoid leaving rural areas without access to their basic life essential necessities.  When people are without basic necessities for days, it could lead to major public health and safety issues.”

NJ Legislative District 12 covers: Allentown, Chesterfield, Englishtown, Jackson, Manalapan, Matawan, Millstone (Monmouth), New Hanover, North Hanover, Old Bridge, Plumsted, Roosevelt, Upper Freehold, Wrightstown

  • Assemblyman Ron Dancer
Assemblyman Ron Dancer
Monmouth County, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

Man Critical But Stable After Car Explodes And Catches Fire On I-195 In Upper Freehold Township

Yesterday’s MidJersey.News story here: TRAFFIC ALERT: Serious Fire On 195 East In Upper Freehold Township

October 1, 2020

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The NJ State spokesman Sgt. Philip Curry told MidJersey.News that Troopers responded to I-195 eastbound milepost 12.8 at 6:48am for a car fire.  Preliminary information indicates that there was an explosion in the trunk of the vehicle that caused the vehicle to become fully engulfed and Gregory Vansciver 29, of Burlington, NJ was seriously injured. He was transported to Helene Fuld Hospital in Trenton where he was last listed in critical but stable condition.  The fire is being investigated.

NJ State Police investigate a car fire after after it exploded on I-195 yesterday.
Millstone, Monmouth County, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

TRAFFIC ALERT: Serious Fire On 195 East In Upper Freehold Township

UPDATE 9:53 I-195 East Bound Completely Closed

UPDATE: 11:30 roadway has been reopened

BREAKING NEWS REPORT: A email was sent to NJSP for official information this is what we know from radio, witness and on scene reporting. Once official information is released the article will be updated

September 30, 2020

Updated at 9:52 that may not have been a crash, and fire related. Once more information is available story will be updated.

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–At 6:49 am the Hope Fire Company of Allentown and the Millstone Township Fire Departments were dispatched to Mile Marker 12.8 East Bound for a vehicle fire. It was reported all occupants were out of the vehicle. There was at least one serious injury that was transported by ambulance to Capital Health Regional Medical Center in Trenton.

I-195 East Bound was closed to 1 lane of traffic in the east bound direction and at the time of this report (8:40 am) there was a 2 mile backup east bound. This will be expected until the serious accident investigation is completed.

Passerby photo sent into MidJersey.News
Allentown, East Windsor, Hightstown, Mercer County, Millstone, Monmouth County, New Egypt, Ocean County, Plumsted, Plumsted Twp, Robbinsville, Upper Freehold

BREAKING: Large Power Outage

September 28, 2020

UPDATE As of 9:30 parts of Robbinsville and Upper Freehold have been restored. Others in East Windsor and Hightstown are still out.

UPDATE At of 11:30 pm Hightstown and East Windsor is still without power and estimated restore time is 1:30 am.

UPDATE 9:00 am 9/29/2020 the outage reporting map is still showing some power failures in East Windsor and Millstone with an estimated 11:30 am restoration time. Most have been restored over night but a few are still without power.

ROBBINSVILLE-UPPER FREEHOLD- EAST WINDSOR- MILLSTONE– Wide area power problems in Robbinsville, East Windsor, Upper Freehold and Millstone in areas served by JCP&L no status or cause reported.

JCPL has been notified.

Allentown, Allentown, Monmouth County, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

5th Annual NJ Fire Museum Open House & Firefighters Memorial Services

September 27, 2020

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The 5th Annual NJ Fire Museum Open House and Firefighters Memorial Services were held today at the Fire Museum. There were views of several generations of apparatus and equipment, demonstrations, food served by Hope Fire Company, and a memorial service held at the NJ Firefighters Memorial for fallen firefighters.

Live fire sprinkler demonstration by NJ Chapter-PenJerDel Chapter of the National Fire Sprinkler Association.

Photos by: Dennis Symons
Photos by: Brian F. Johnson
Aberdeen, Allentown, Allentown, Asbury Park, Atlantic Highlands, Belmar, Bradley Beach, Brielle, Eatontown, Englishtown, Farmingdale, Freehold, Hazlet, Highlands, Holmdel, Howell, Keansburg, Keyport, Lincroft, Little Silver, Long Branch, Manalapan, Marlboro, Matawan, Middletown, Millstone, Monmouth County, Neptune, Ocean, Oceanport, Red Bank, Roosevelt, Roosevelt, Rumson, Union Beach, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold, Wall

Vote-By-Mail Drop Box Arrives In Allentown

September 22, 2020

ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–An Allentown resident told MidJersey.News that around 11 pm last night a delivery crew installed a Vote-By-Mail Drop Box in front of Allentown at Borough Hall on Main Street. There are currently 17 Vote-By-Mail Drop Box locations for Monmouth County, this is the furthest west serving Western Monmouth County.

A current list of Vote-By-Mail Drop Box locations for Monmouth County can be found here.

Vote-By-Mail Drop Box Locations

Pursuant to State law, the November 3, 2020 General Election will be conducted primarily by Mail-In Ballot in New Jersey.

If you wish to place your Mail-In Ballot in a secure drop box, below are the locations throughout the County which will be available starting the week of September 15. Addresses in the list below are clickable and will bring up Google Maps.

Voters can drop their voted Mail-In Ballot into these Board of Elections Drop Boxes anywhere in the County up until 8 p.m. on November 3, 2020. You do not have to be a resident of the town where the drop box is located. Be advised that these drop boxes are under video surveillance and are monitored by the Monmouth County Board of Elections, which can be reached at 732-431-7802.

For more information about the General Election process, click here.

LocationAddressEntry
1Aberdeen Municipal Building1 Aberdeen Square
Aberdeen, NJ 07747
2Allentown Borough Hall8 North Main Street
Allentown, NJ 08501
3Asbury Park City Hall1 Municipal Plaza
Asbury Park, NJ 07712		City Council Chambers (Bangs Avenue Entrance)
4Borough of Belmar Municipal Building601 Main Street
Belmar, NJ 07719
5Eatontown Borough Municipal Building47 Broad Street
Eatontown, NJ 07724		Rear Entrance
6Board of Elections Office300 Halls Mill Road
Freehold, NJ 07728		Side Entrance
7Hazlet Agency – NJ Motor Vehicle Commission1374 Highway 36
Hazlet, NJ 07730		Airport Plaza
8Howell Township Municipal Building4567 Route 9 North
Howell, NJ 07731		Rear Entrance
9Long Branch City Hall344 Broadway
Long Branch, NJ 07740
10Manalapan Township Municipal Building120 County Road 522
Manalapan, NJ 07726
11Middletown Municipal Building1 Kings Highway
Middletown Township, NJ 07748
12Croydon Hall900 Leonardville Road
Leonardo, NJ 07737
13Neptune Township Municipal Building25 Neptune Boulevard
Neptune, NJ 07753		Library Entrance
14Ocean Township Town Hall399 Monmouth Road
Oakhurst, NJ 07755
15Red Bank Borough Municipal Building90 Monmouth Street
Red Bank, NJ 07701
16Rumson Borough Hall80 East River Road
Rumson, NJ 07760
17Wall Township Municipal Building2700 Allaire Road
Wall, NJ 07719
Allentown Borough Hall Vote-By-Mail Drop Box arrived at 11 pm last night.
Monmouth County, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

Worker Suffers Serious Injures In Construction Accident At Sharon Station Road Site

September 9, 2020

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–New Jersey State Police spokesman Sgt. Philip Curry stated Troopers were detailed to Sharon Station Road in Upper Freehold Township at 2:09 pm for a male injured at a construction site. The male construction worker suffered serious injures and was transported to the Trauma Center at Capital Health Regional Medical Center in Trenton. The accident is currently under investigation.

Firefighters from Hope Fire Company of Allentown-Upper Freehold Twp., Capital Health-Allentown EMS, and paramedics responded to the scene. A landing zone was set up near the accident for a helicopter but was recalled due to length of time for the helicopter to respond.