Tragic Accident in Lavallette
LAVALLETTE — A Toms River woman was killed, and seven others were injured when a vehicle ran over the curb and crashed into two businesses on Grand Central Avenue on Saturday, September 19, according to local authorities.
The incident occurred around 11:12 AM when a 2014 Buick Encore, driven by a 93-year-old Lavallette resident, was reportedly trying to park outside Meg’s Grill at 1401 Grand Central Ave. Instead of applying the brakes, the driver accidentally pressed the accelerator, sending the vehicle into the outdoor dining area, where it struck several patrons before colliding with the building.
Among the injured, eight patrons were taken to the hospital with various injuries, including a 56-year-old Toms River woman who succumbed to her injuries. The driver of the vehicle sustained a minor hand injury and was also transported to the hospital.
The businesses affected were Meg’s Grill and Cornerstone Wine & Liquors. Although the collision resulted in some structural damage, the store’s owner, Timothy Darcy, confirmed that none of his employees were injured, and both establishments have temporarily halted operations. Darcy has expressed optimism about reopening within a few days after an engineer assesses the damage.
A thorough investigation is currently underway, involving multiple local emergency services and law enforcement agencies. The Lavallette Police Chief confirmed that additional updates will follow as more information becomes available.
For further details, read The Ocean Star, available in print and online.
