WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–West Windsor Police, Emergency Service and West Windsor firefighters responded to U.S. Route 1 North Bound near Washington Road (CR-571) for an overturned vehicle into a gas station at 9:40 a.m. There were initial reports of entrapment and vehicle fire but upon arrival the occupants of vehicle were out of vehicle and was not on fire. The crash took out a gasoline pump and firefighters used an absorbent to help control the spilled gasoline. The vehicle was up righted and towed away. West Windsor Police Department is investigating the crash.
The New Jersey Convoy to Washington DC started in North Jersey today near Mahwah and proceeded down several highways on their way to New Egypt Speedway for a rally at 6:00 p.m. On Sunday the Convoy will leave New Egypt Speedway and proceed to several highways and meet at Salem County Fairgrounds for a final send off to Washington DC on Monday.
According to NJTruckerConvoy.com In solidarity with our brothers and sisters nationwide in the global Freedom Convoy phenomenon, a peaceful, nonpartisan convoy & event has been planned statewide in New Jersey from March 5th – March 6th, 2022. We Americans love our freedoms and our country. This convoy aims to restore our civil liberties and freedoms. Our goal is to protect the freedom of choice for future generations. It’s not about political parties, but more so, we believe our government has forgotten its place and has no regard for our Founding Fathers’ instructions, The Constitution of the United States of America. We believe that the power of politicians on all sides has been abused. We demand our voices be heard once again. We, The People, of all political affiliations & walks of life, demand the restoration of our democracy and an end to all unconstitutional mandates.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)– Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes has presented to the County Board of Commissioners his administration’s proposed 2022 budget, a $358 million spending plan that stays within the state-mandated 2-percent cap and would result in no increase to the tax levy.
Mr. Hughes on Feb. 22 presented an overview of his administration’s budget proposal to the commissioners, who will review the document over the coming weeks before voting on its adoption.
Of the total budget, $269 million would be collected through property taxes, the same levy as last year.
“This document represents our effort to provide the best possible government in the most cost-effective manner to the taxpayer,” Mr. Hughes said. “The ongoing pandemic has tested us as never before. While we may have changed the way we deliver some services, I am proud of the fact that we have continued to provide resources our residents expect, and I applaud the creativity of our county workforce, including this board, for their flexibility.”
A resident’s actual tax rate will rise or fall depending on his or her municipality once the county rate is equalized to reflect the difference between municipal property assessments and property market values.
The budget proposes that $6.5 million of the County’s surplus be used, leaving a $33 million balance, along with $22 million from the federal American Rescue Plan fund to “help offset the enormous expenditures incurred during the unprecedented pandemic response,” Mr. Hughes said. The spending plan “reflects our continued response to the challenges brought by the pandemic and the toll it has taken on the health of our residents, as well as our county finances, and as a result of our responsible planning, we can propose a budget that is considerate of our taxpayers and offers relief by holding the line,” Mr. Hughes added.
Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes File Photo Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes File Photo
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)—Police say that last night at 10:15 p.m., West Windsor Police received a 9-1-1 call for a motor vehicle collision on U.S. Route 1 South near the Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant.
A driver from Trenton was operating a mini motorized bike in the center lane of U.S. Route 1 South and was struck by a Ford operated by a resident of North Brunswick. The impact threw the 40-year-old female off her bike onto Route 1. The driver of the Ford immediately pulled his vehicle onto the shoulder and exited his vehicle to aid the minibike driver who was in the roadway. However, traffic was heavy and numerous vehicles struck the female as well as her motorbike in the roadway. One of the vehicles that struck her, a BMW operated by a Trenton resident, pulled over and awaited police officers’ arrival.
The driver of the minibike was pronounced dead at the scene at 11:00 p.m. by Dr. Samson of Capital Health Regional Medical Center. The minibike the female was operating did not have any lights and she was dressed in dark clothing.
US Route 1 south was closed for approximately 4 hours. NJ Dot assisted with road closures and detours in the area. Any witnesses to this collision can contact Traffic Officer Brown or Traffic Sgt. Loretucci of the West Windsor Police Dept. 609-799-1222, our Anonymous Tipline at (609) 799-0452, or Brown@westwindsorpolice.com.
Responding agencies were, West Windsor Police Department, West Windsor Fire & Emergency Services, Princeton Junction Fire Company Station 44, Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Serious Collision Response Team (SCRT), Middlesex County Medical Examiner, Capital Health Paramedics and NJ Department of Transportation.
Free tax preparation assistance available in Mercer County
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)— Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes reminds residents that many sites throughout Mercer County offer free income tax preparation assistance to help them prepare and file their 2021 taxes. The deadline for filing 2021 tax returns for both state and federal taxes is April 18, 2022. Below is a list of sites where free income tax preparation assistance is being provided to qualified individuals. Call the site for required paperwork.
AARP Tax-Aide program sites in Mercer County
The AARP Foundation provides Tax-Aides to assist people with low to moderate incomes with 2018 tax preparation at Mercer County Connection, libraries and other sites. For more information, including a list of documents to bring to the Tax-Aide site, visit www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/.
Ewing Branch, Mercer County Library System, 61 Scotch Road, Ewing Wednesdays, 1:30 to 5 p.m. Appointment necessary; call (609) 882-3148.
Lawrence Headquarters Branch, Mercer County Library System, 2751 Brunswick Ave., Lawrence Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Appointment necessary; call (609) 882-9246.
Lawrence Senior Center, 30 East Darrah Lane, Lawrence Tuesdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Appointment necessary; call (609) 844-7048. Seniors preferred.
Mercer County Connection, through United Way, 957 Route 33 (Acme shopping center), Hamilton Mondays and Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Appointment necessary; call (609) 890-9800. Mercer County residents only.
Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon St., Princeton Mondays, 10:15 a.m. to 2 p.m. Appointment necessary; call (609) 924-9529, ext.1220
Princeton Senior Resource Center, 45 Stockton St., Princeton Fridays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Appointment necessary; call (609) 924-7108.
RWJ Fitness and Wellness Center, 3100 Quakerbridge Road, Mercerville Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Appointment necessary; call (609) 584-5900.
West Windsor Senior Center, 271 Clarksville Road, Princeton Junction Tuesdays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Appointment necessary; call (609) 799-9068.
IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program sites in Mercer County
The VITA Program generally offers free tax help to people who make $54,000 or less, people with disabilities, and limited-English-speaking taxpayers who need assistance in preparing their own tax returns. IRS-certified volunteers provide free basic income tax return preparation with electronic filing to qualified individuals in local communities. For more information, visit www.irs.gov/Individuals/Free-Tax-Return-Preparation-for-You-by-Volunteers.
Boys & Girls Club of Trenton, 212 Centre St., Trenton Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, noon. to 3 p.m. Walk-ins welcome; call (609) 392-3191 for required paperwork.
Boys & Girls Club of Mercer County, 1040 Spruce St., Lawrence Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, noon. to 3 p.m. Walk-ins welcome; call (609) 392-3191 for required paperwork.
Catholic Charities of Trenton, 39 North Clinton Ave, Building 1, Side Door, Trenton Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, noon to 3 p.m. Walk-ins welcome; call (609) 394-5181 for required paperwork.
United Way of Greater Mercer County, 3150 Brunswick Pike, Crossroads Corporate Center, Suite 230, Lawrence Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 5 to 8 p.m., Thursdays, 9 a.m. to noon, and Saturdays, noon to 3 p.m. Appointment required; call (609) 896-1912, for required paperwork.
January 16, 2022 update: Fire Officials have confirmed that the fire originated from the heater due to malfunction.
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER) – Firefighters from several towns converged on Millstone Road, off Cranbury Road near Grovers Mill Pond, and endured frigid conditions to battle a structure fire this evening (Saturday, Jan. 15). It was about 5:01 p.m. when West Windsor firefighters were dispatched to the blaze in the one-story, multi-family residence at 15 Millstone Road. Heavy smoke was billowing from the roof when township firefighters arrived. Initially there were reports that someone might be trapped inside, so additional fire companies from East Windsor, Plainsboro, Princeton, and Lawrence were sent to the scene. Fortunately, it was quickly confirmed that no one was trapped and that everyone was safely outside. A significant amount of fire was reportedly in the attic area and firefighters had to cut multiple holes in the roof to vent heat and smoke and also access pockets of fire that were inaccessible from the interior below. The blaze was declared under control about 6:07 p.m. With temperatures staying in the teens, water runoff from firefighters’ hoselines quickly froze and created slippery conditions on both the ground and the roof. A cat that had been inside the burning structure and was reportedly located by firefighters and reunited with its owner. The cause of the blaze remains under investigation.
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–Tonight at Mercer County Park Skating Center Robbinsville-Allentown Cooperative Ice Hockey defeated West Windsor-Plainsboro United with a final score of 6-1
2nd Serious Incident Within a Month at Princeton Junction Train Station
January 10, 2022
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–On the night of Tuesday January 4th, 2022, NJ Transit Police Department officers responded to the Princeton Junction Dinky Line for a potentially intoxicated trespasser that was struck by a train. Through the darkness, K9 Officer Roman reportedly heard cries for help coming from a swamp. Multiple officers and emergency personnel began searching through the area.
West Windsor Fire & Emergency Services were dispatched to the Princeton Junction Train Station for a reported pedestrian struck. Upon arrival members of C-Platoon met with Officer Roman & his K9 counterpart of the New Jersey Transit Police Department to look for the reported struck pedestrian. Within minutes Officer Roman and C-Platoon members heard yelling from the swampy marsh near the track.
While utilizing the thermal imaging camera from Fire & Emergency Services, the cadre of responders embarked into the swampy area where unable to definitively locate the injured subject. The air temperature during this time was approximately 28 degrees Fahrenheit, with a 7-10mph wind coming from the south. Considering the possible condition of the patient and the weather conditions, a request for the NJSP Aviation unit was initiated by Sgt. Conrad (NJTPD).
Once overhead, New Jersey State Police Aviation located the patient within 150 yards of the responders, without regard for their safety Firefighter Douglas Frueh, NJTPD Officer Ruocco, and Officer Geoghegan made their way through deep mud and ice-cold water to the patient.
Upon making patient contact Firefighter Frueh rapidly assessed the patient for injuries and what would be needed to safely remove the patient. He radioed to Captain Mitchell & Firefighter Zuber who began the trek into the unfavorable condition along with Officer Roman with equipment for removal. While waiting for the additional support the immediate injuries were tended to, and the patient’s leg was immobilized.
The patient was placed into a Reeves carrying device for extraction from the area.
This operation was a joint effort and may not have had the same outcome if all the resources hadn’t been on the scene.
All personnel sacrificed their safety and worked as a team to rescue this individual. Please remember to stay off the tracks. Every trespasser incident is avoidable!
At another incident on December 23, 2021, Ptl. Knox and Ptl. Fattibene, were at the Princeton Junction Train Station along with Captain Bain and Firefighter Zuber (West Windsor Fire & EMS) for an intoxicated female on the southbound platform. While attending to the woman, they were alerted to a male who had just fallen from the northbound platform onto the train tracks and was lying face down and motionless across the outside rail. Ptl. Knox, Ptl. Fattibene, and Firefighter Jack Zuber jumped down onto the tracks and ran to victim to render aid while Capt. Bain stayed with the intoxicated female. The victim was found semi-conscious with a laceration to his forehead. Knowing the dangers of being on the tracks for any length of time, especially during rush hour, Ptl. Knox, Ptl. Fattibene, and Firefighter Zuber picked the victim up from the tracks and collectively lifted him back onto the platform, which was no small feat given the victims large size, limp state, and the height of the platform from the tracks. They even picked up his belongings from the tracks before jumping back to the safety of the platform. Barely a minute later, an Amtrak train traveling at a high rate of speed going northbound on the inside rail went screaming by. The victim had serious trauma to his head among other injuries and he was attended to by WW Fire & EMS members; Captain Pope, Captain Bain, Firefighter Zuber, Firefighter Jamison (Fire Marshal’s Office), and Firefighter Table. EMS 45 also transported the victim to Capital Health Regional Medical Center for treatment.
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–Around 10:00 p.m. January 4, 2022, a pedestrian was struck by the Princeton Junction “Dinky” train. West Windsor Emergency Services and West Windsor Fire Departments responded to the Princeton Junction Train Station. Firefighters and EMS responded to a wooded area near the “Dinky” line off Station Drive.
Just after 12:00 a.m. Jan 5, 2022, the pedestrian was removed from the wooded area and was being “treated” in the back of the ambulance. EMS units transported the patient to the Trauma Center at Capital Health Regional Medical Center in Trenton at 12:35 a.m., and a “Trauma Alert” was called En route to the hospital.
New Jersey Transit reported that service was suspended due to a pedestrian strike and that substitute bus service was being provided to the riders of the Dinky Train.
The Dinky connects downtown Princeton, NJ and the Princeton University campus with Princeton Junction Station on the Northeast Corridor, the train superhighway connecting Boston, New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC.
No further information is available at this time.
Update: Princeton Shuttle service is suspended due to a pedestrian strike. Substitute bus service is being provided.
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–During the overnight hours, (5) vehicles had tires punctured with an unknown sharp object while parked at Freedom Village. West Windsor Police Department was alerted to this incident while also handling a Fatal Collision Involving a Pedestrian on Route 1. The WWPD is actively investigating this incident(s) of Criminal Mischief involving many victims.
Police request that if you have any pertinent information, please call the Non-Emergency line at (609) 799-0452, Anonymous Tip Line at (609) 799-0452, Ptl. Fattibene the Investigating Officer at Fattibene@westwindsorpoliice.com
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)—West Windsor Police were detailed to Route 1 North Bound near “The Square of West Windsor” Shopping Center for a car vs pedestrian accident at 6:22 a.m. West Windsor Emergency Services, Princeton Junction Fire Company, West Windsor Fire Company, and Capital Health Paramedics were also detailed to the scene. Paramedics pronounced the victim deceased at the scene.
Police say the initial investigation revealed that a 2015 Nissan Altima driven by a 31-year-old female Plainsboro resident was traveling north bound on US Route 1 in the right lane and was approaching the area of “The Square at West Windsor” Shopping Center. A pedestrian a 64-year-old male from West Windsor had traversed the deceleration lanes of US Route 1 north bound and entered into the right lane of US Route 1 north bound into the direct path of the Nissan Altima. The pedestrian was struck by the Nissan and continued into the shoulder portion of the roadway and came to its final resting place. The pedestrian remained mostly embedded in the vehicle’s windshield and front passenger area.
The collision yielded all US Route 1 north lanes closed from Quakerbridge Road to Meadow Road for approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes for the investigation. The West Windsor Police Department is actively requesting anyone with pertinent information about the collision to please contact the Non-Emergency line at (609) 799-1222 or Anonymous Tip Line at (609) 799-0452 or email the Lead Traffic Officer LaRocca at LaRocca@westwindsorpolice.com
Police say the investigation is ongoing and no identifications will be released at this time.
Responding to the scene were WWPD Patrol Division, Administration, Detective Bureau, & Traffic Unit (Lead Investigators), West Windsor Division of Fire & Emergency Services (WWDFES), Princeton Junction Volunteer Fire Company (Station #44), West Windsor Volunteer Fire Company (Station #43), Capital Health Paramedics, NJSP, NJ DOT, Mercer County Prosecutors Office Serious Collision Response Team (SCRT), Middlesex County Medical Examiner’s Office
West Windsor Police and investigators complete their investigation and prepare a car to be towed that was involved in a fatal pedestrian crash in front of The Square at West Windsor Shopping Center this morning.
WEST WINDSOR-PENNINGTON, NJ (MERCER)–On Saturday, Dec. 4, 2021, from 10 a.m. to noon Mercer County Sheriff’s Officer Mike Mullen and his K9 partner Bodhi will be at the Dogs & Cats Rule pet store at 800 Denow Road in Pennington, N.J., to “pawtograph” the 2022 Cops & Dogs Police K9 calendar.
Officer Mike Mullen and K9 Bodhi, who appear in the calendar for the month of January, will be available at the store for a “meet & greet” where you’ll be able to ask questions, pet K9 Bodhi and have him pawtograph a copy of your calendar.
On Sunday, Dec. 5, 2021, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. West Windsor Police Sgt. Doug Montgomery and his K9 partner Mackey will be at the Dogs & Cats Rule pet store’s Princeton location at 3495 Route 1 in West Windsor to “pawtograph” the 2022 Cops & Dogs Police K9 calendar.
Sgt. Montgomery and K9 Mackey, who appear in the calendar for the month of December, will be available at the store for a “meet and greet” where you’ll be able to ask questions, pet K9 Mackey and have him pawtograph a copy of your calendar. Proceeds from calendar sales will benefit the Capital K9 Association which is a non-profit organization providing bullet proof vests and canine equipment for working police dogs.
John Baer, a former NYPD police officer and photographer of the Cops & Dogs calendar will also be at the store to discuss the calendar and answer questions about K9 photography. The calendar can be purchased for $14.95 at the Dogs & Cats Rule pet store or online at: www.copsanddogs.com.
Sgt. Montgomery and K9 MackeyOfficer Mike Mullen and K9 Bodhi
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–West Windsor Police and West Windsor Fire and Emergency Services responded to the intersection of US Route 1 and Washington Road- CR 571 at 11:13 a.m. for an overturned truck with reported injuries. Upon arrival of police and fire it was determined that the roadway would need to be closed due to the crash. The West Windsor Fire and Emergency Services Hazardous Materials Team was also called to the scene for 40 gallons of diesel fuel and transmission fluid and oil leaking into the storm drains and soil. Preliminary information is that the truck was traveling south bound on US Route 1 and attempted to avoid a vehicle, and crashed into the NJ barrier and overturned.
No further information is available at this time. Once West Windsor Police issues a press release the story will be updated and any corrections made.
Google Maps has the area still closed as of 1:20 p.m.
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)—After the investigation West Windsor Police today, charged driver Ddjena Elysee of Newark, NJ with Death by Auto and (3) Counts of Assault by Auto for an accident on Route 1 on June 26, 2021. Elysee was processed at West Windsor Police Headquarters and was turned over to the Mercer County “Workhouse” Correction Center pending a court date at the Mercer County Superior Court.
*Please note that charges are merely accusations and that the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.*
June 26, 2021
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–On Saturday, June 26, 2021 at 3:30 a.m., West Windsor Patrol Units were detailed to a two vehicle crash on U.S. Route 1 South, approximately one quarter mile north of Carnegie Center Blvd.
When responding officers arrived on scene, they found a black Volkswagen Passat and a black Chevrolet Cruze in the roadway, both with heavy damage and injuries to the occupants. The front seat passenger of the Volkswagen Passat was also heavily entrapped in the car. Additional emergency resources were requested and responded to the scene.
The initial investigation revealed the following: The Volkswagen was traveling south on US Route 1 approaching Carnegie Center Blvd. The Volkswagen drove off the roadway to the right where it struck a utility pole, followed by a road sign, and then a second utility pole, before spinning back onto the roadway, disabled in the center lane with its passenger side exposed to oncoming traffic. The Chevrolet was traveling south on Rt. 1 in the center lane and struck the front passenger side of the Volkswagen.
After the front seat passenger of the Volkswagen was extricated from the vehicle, he was transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center initially in critical condition, however, he later succumbed to his injuries.
The driver of the Volkswagen and the two other passengers of the car were also transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center for treatment of serious injuries.
The driver of the Chevrolet was transported to the Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries.
U.S. Route 1 South between Alexander Rd. and Carnegie Center Blvd. was closed for approximately four (4) hours to conduct the investigation.
This crash remains under investigation. No charges have been issued at the time of this release.
If anyone has any additional information, please contact Traffic Officer LaRoccca at LaRocca@westwindsorpolice.com, Traffic Sgt. Bal at Bal@westwindsorpolice.com, or by calling (609) 799-1222. In addition, persons can Reply with TIP to this Nixle or call our Confidential Tip Line at (609) 799-0452.
Responding to the scene were: WWPD Patrol Division, Administration, Detective Bureau, & Traffic Unit (Lead Investigators), West Windsor Division of Fire & Emergency Services (WWDFES), Princeton Junction Volunteer Fire Company (Station #44), West Windsor Volunteer Fire Company (Station #43), Capital Health Paramedics, Plainsboro EMS, Princeton EMS, Lawrence EMS, Princeton Plasma Physics Lab EMS, Plainsboro Police Department and the Mercer County Prosecutors Office Serious Collision Response Team (SCRT).
Driver #1 – 24-year-old Ddjena Elysee Resident of Newark, NJ 07106 (Was originally reported as Hamilton, NJ)
Front Seat Passenger of vehicle #2– 23 year old **DECEASED** Resident of Hamilton, NJ 08620
Rear Seat Passenger of vehicle #2– 24 year old Resident of Trenton, NJ 08611
Rear Seat Passenger vehicle #2– 26 year old Resident of Trenton, NJ 08610
Driver #2 – 50 year old Resident of Willingboro, NJ 08046
Weekdays 7 a.m.-7 p.m.; weekends 8 a.m.-5 p.m., at Hollowbrook Center
September 14, 2021
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–
TRENTON – Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Mercer County has opened a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) at Hollowbrook Community Center, 320 Hollowbrook Drive, Ewing Township, to assist any Mercer County residents or businesses whose property was damaged in the remnants of Hurricane Ida. The DRC is open starting today, Sept. 14 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays, and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sunday. Residents do not need to schedule an appointment to visit the center, nor must they be Mercer County residents.
The DRC will be staffed by FEMA representatives who can provide information on FEMA disaster aid and answer questions. Again, the DRC is open to residents and businesses from every municipality in Mercer County, and residents from any other county that received the FEMA “Disaster” declaration.
On Sept. 10, Mercer County residents were declared eligible to register for Individual Assistance with FEMA. Residents who previously registered for assistance via the Internet or by phone do not need to visit the DRC, but can ask questions or seek further information in person at the DRC. The eligibility for FEMA Individual Assistance means residents or business owners whose properties were directly damaged by the flooding or storm events on September 1-3 can apply to recoup their losses.
What is a Disaster Recovery Center?
A DRC is a readily accessible facility or mobile office where applicants may go for information about FEMA or other disaster assistance programs, or for questions related to a specific case.
Some of the services that a DRC may provide:
Guidance regarding disaster recovery
Clarification of any written correspondence received
Housing Assistance and Rental Resource information
Answers to questions, resolution to problems and referrals to agencies that may provide further assistance
Status of applications being processed by FEMA.
SBA program information if there is a SBA Representative at the Disaster Recovery Center site.
Affected residents and business owners can begin the disaster application process by registering online at DisasterAssistance.gov or registering by phone at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for the hearing and speech impaired.
The toll-free numbers are available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. local time Monday through Sunday, and applicants registering for aid should be prepared to provide basic information such as their name, the name of the business, address, phone number, insurance coverage, and other information to help substantiate losses.
Individual Assistance, if awarded, can cover reimbursement for a variety of storm-related expenses.
These include, but are not limited to: rental payments for temporary housing for those whose homes are uninhabitable; grants for home repairs and replacement of essential household items not covered by insurance; low-interest loans to cover residential losses not fully compensated by insurance; loans for small businesses that suffered disaster-related cash flow problems; and loans for farmers and other agriculture operators to cover property loss.
Additionally, mall businesses and most private nonprofit organizations in Mercer County are eligible to apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans from the Small Business Administration. For more information, visit https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela/s/.
Residents in need of assistance with damage from Tropical Storm Ida may call a Home Cleanup Hotline at 844-965-1386 to be connected with volunteers from local relief organizations and community groups that may be able to assist with cutting fallen trees, removing drywall, flooring and appliances, tarping roofs and mitigating mold.
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–The West Windsor Township 9/11 “20th Anniversary” Ceremony was held at the Twin Ponds Memorial at the Ronald R. Rogers Arboretum, intersection of Clarksville and Princeton-Hightstown Road this evening.
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–The West Windsor Police Department is actively investigating numerous motor vehicle burglaries that occurred overnight late Saturday night and into early Sunday morning. The burglaries occurred in various neighborhoods throughout West Windsor Township police said.
West Windsor Police are asking residents to check home video surveillance systems for anything that appeared out of place during the overnight hours. Police are asking that if anyone sees anything suspicious to notify the police department.
Police say that there have been multiple actor(s) arriving by motor vehicle and been known to rifle though unsecured cars and/or steal them.
Police ask you to secure your vehicles and garage doors at all times and if you happen to see the actor(s) do not confront them but to call the West Windsor Police Department immediately.
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
August 5, 2021 — Updated with official information on August 6, 2021
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–Police say that on August 5, 2021 at 2:29 pm, patrol units were detailed to a residence in the 200 Block of South Lane on a report of a Structure Fire. Sgt. Magistro, first on scene, reported smoke coming from the residence. All of the residents evacuated (including the family dog) without any reported injuries.
When firefighters arrived they reported a fire in the basement and stretched handlines to extinguish the fire. The fire was quickly extinguished saving the home.
The fire is under the continued investigation of the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Arson Unit and the WWPD Detective Bureau. It should be noted that the residence sustained damage from fire, smoke and the response associated with extinguishing the flames & ventilating the residence. There were no reported injuries to any First Responders.
West Windsor Fire Department, West Windsor Emergency Services, Princeton Junction Fire Company, Robbinsville Township Fire Department, Hamilton Township Fire Department, Plainsboro Fire Department, Cranbury Fire Department, Monroe Township Fire Department, Princeton EMS responded to the scene.
Police Chief Garofalo wanted to express his appreciation and personally thank all of the responding units from the various agencies listed above who readily answered the call for service in an instant.
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–Around 4:10 p.m. the West Windsor Police Department and West Windsor Emergency Services responded to Old Trenton Road and Cottonwood Drive for an overturned vehicle. West Windsor and Princeton Junction Fire Companies were also dispatched to the scene but recalled due to no entrapment and no services needed. There were no injuries that needed transportation to the hospital reported in the accident.
Police said that Sgt. Brodowski was first on scene and determined that Vehicle #1, a 2016 Chevrolet Cruze driven by a resident of Franklin Park, NJ, was traveling behind Vehicle #2, a 2018 Audi Q7. Vehicle #2, which was slowing for a red light, was rear-ended by Vehicle #1. Vehicle #1 left no traces of trying to stop or slow down prior to impact.
Driver #1 of the Chevrolet Cruze was found to be unconscious and injured upon arrival. Sgt. Brodowski had to break the driver’s side window in order to extricate Driver #1 from the wreckage and began life saving efforts. Driver #1 had been unrestrained and smashed his face into the front windshield and had no pulse and was not breathing.
Firefighters and EMS from West Windsor Emergency Services and Capital Health Paramedics arrived and took over the care of Driver #1.
Driver #1 was transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center as responding First Responders were able assist the man 1 in regaining a pulse. He sustained non-life-threatening injuries to his head/face as a result of the collision.
Vehicle #2’s two occupants were uninjured in the collision.
The incident is still under investigation by the WWPD Traffic Unit. If anyone has any pertinent information to share, please contact Traffic Sgt. Bal at Bal@westwindsorpolice.com or (609) 799-1222.
Responding to the scene were: West Windsor Police Department, West Windsor Division of Fire & Emergency Services Squad #45, Princeton Junction Volunteer Fire Company Station #44, West Windsor Volunteer Fire Company Station #43, Princeton Emergency Services – First Aid and Rescue Squad, Capital Health Paramedics, and the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Serious Collision Response Team.
Quick response by Police and Emergency Services saved a man’s life in West Windsor yesterday. Rescue workers were able to revive and bring a man back to life after found not breathing and no pulse after a crash on Route 1 yesterday. Photos by: Brian McCarthy
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–West Windsor Police and West Windsor Emergency Services responded to a serious MVA on U.S. Route 1 near Carnegie Boulevard around 1:00 p.m. The crash also sent Capital Health Paramedics and the Princeton First Aid and Rescue squad to the scene. The victim was rushed to the hospital by medical personnel.
West Windsor Police sent a notice to avoid the area of Route 1 North Bound at Carnegie Boulevard for an accident investigation.
West Windsor Police are investigating the crash. No further information is available at this time.
Once official information becomes available the story will be updated.
Crash investigation on US 1 northbound at Carnegie Center Blvd (West Windsor Twp) 2 Left lanes of 4 lanes closed 10-15 minute delay use caution https://t.co/HC5JlXYzzd
Crash with Injuries on US 1 northbound North of Quaker Bridge Rd (West Windsor Twp) 2 Left lanes of 3 lanes closed 10-15 minute delay use caution https://t.co/NMRY76ZaoN
Crash investigation on US 1 northbound at Carnegie Center Blvd (West Windsor Twp) 2 Left lanes of 4 lanes closed 10-15 minute delay use caution https://t.co/ad9xKzjzxZ
Crash investigation on US 1 southbound at Carnegie Center Blvd (West Windsor Twp) 1 Left lane of 4 lanes closed 5-10 minute delay use caution https://t.co/0Xh09rnF74
WEST WINDSOR – HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Sometime around 4:00 p.m. police received on 9-1-1 call reporting a plane down in the area of Mercer County Park that crashed in or near the lake. Police responded from both West Windsor and Hamilton Township as well as Mercer County Park Rangers. Police from the West Windsor side appeared to have at least three drones in the air and Hamilton appeared to have two drones searching. West Windsor Emergency Services, Princeton Junction Fire Company and West Windsor responded and deployed boats to search the water for any aircraft.
Police reportedly made contact with local airports to ask if there were any missing aircraft and none were reported. After a through search of the area the search was called off since nothing was found. It appears that it was a good intent call.
No further information is available at this time.
West Windsor emergency personnel search Mercer County Lake for a reported plane down. No plane was found.
Hamilton Township Police appear to have at least two drones in the air searching their side of Mercer County Park and Van Nest Wildlife Refuge after a through search nothing was reported found.
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–The West Windsor Police Department is actively investigating approximately $10,000.00 in Criminal Mischief to the West Windsor Community Park Cricket Pitch. The hooligan(s) used unknown means to cause substantial damage to the center Cricket Pitch rendering the area as unplayable sometime between Tuesday 6/22/2021 and Wednesday 6/23/2021. The WWPD is soliciting any assistance you may be able to provide in bringing those responsible to justice.
Please feel free to contact WWPD at (609) 799-1222, our Anonymous Tip Line at (609) 799-0452
WALL TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The NJ Urban Search And Rescue Task Force One has deployed to Surfside, Miami, Florida for a building collapse. The team left this morning around 6:45 a.m. and was spotted in Robbinsville, NJ at New Jersey Turnpike Exit 7A with a police escort en route to Florida.
Known locals responding and/or on the team are: Brad Ladislaw, Jay Ryan, Joe Flynn, Jeff Barlow from Hamilton Township Fire Department. Lt. Michael McMahon, Planning Team Manager, from West Windsor Police Department. Scott Cook, Rescue Specialist from West Windsor Fire & Emergency Services. Mike Yeh, Task Force Leader, Princeton Emergency & Safety Services-Princeton Junction Fire Company. Trenton Fire Department Battalion Chief Dave Smolka, Technical Search, Deputy Chief Anthony Moran, Safety, and Joe Szabo, Rescue Specialist. (list updated as we get it)
New Jersey Task Force 1 (NJ-TF1) has been activated as 1 of the 28 teams of the National Urban Search & Rescue (US&R) Response System and will be deploying tomorrow morning to assist with the rescue and recovery efforts resulting from the Champlain Tower Collapse.
NJ-TF1 is deploying as a Type 1 US&R Team consisting of 70 team members, in 21 technically skilled positions, and 10 ground support personnel. The team will be responding via; two crew carriers, three tractor-trailers, two box trucks, five F-450 crew trucks, two passenger vans, two K-9 units, two utility terrain vehicles, and a fleet service truck. A water rescue component of six boats with trailers and a water support trailer are also being deployed.
NJ-TF1 is deploying to a staging area in Miami, Florida. This will be the team’s eighth deployment as a FEMA US&R Team since 2016. The team has past experience in structural collapse from 9/11, Tropicana Hotel Parking Garage Collapse and the Hackensack Parking Garage Collapse among others.
NJOEM & NJ-TF1 continue to send our thoughts and prayers to everyone impacted by this deadly tragedy.
Our hearts go out to the brave first responders who are working around the clock in search of survivors. We’ll see you soon.
New Jersey Task Force 1 (NJ-TF1) has been activated as 1 of the 28 teams of the National Urban Search & Rescue (US&R) Response System and are deploying to Miami, FL to assist with the rescue and recovery efforts resulting from the Champlain Tower Collapse, in Wall, N.J. on Thursday, July 1, 2021. (New Jersey State Police / Tim Larsen)
