Washington Twp, NJ (February 16, 2026) – A pedestrian was seriously injured in a hit-and-run crash early on Sunday, February 15, along the Black Horse Pike, also known as State Hwy 42, in Washington Twp. Authorities say the incident occurred at approximately 4:34 a.m. near the intersection with Whitman Dr.
Key Details
- Location: Black Horse Pike (State Hwy 42) & Whitman Dr, Washington Twp, NJ
- Reported: Sunday, February 15 at 4:34 a.m.
- Vehicle: 2021 Mercedes SUV
- Injuries: Life-threatening injuries reported
- Hospital Transport: Taken to Jefferson Hospital, then airlifted to Cooper University Hospital Trauma Center
- Investigation: Vehicle operator identified using license plate reader technology
What We Know So Far
- The pedestrian was walking along the southbound shoulder near Whitman Dr when struck.
- Police say the Mercedes SUV was traveling southbound at the time of the collision.
- The driver allegedly fled the scene immediately after the impact.
- The roadway was closed for approximately two hours between Greentree Rd and Whitman Dr.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The identity of the driver.
- Whether charges will be filed.
- The pedestrian’s current medical condition.
Local Context
The Black Horse Pike, or State Hwy 42, is a major 17-mile corridor running through Gloucester County and serving as a primary commuter route. In Washington Twp, the roadway includes high-speed lanes, commercial access points, and limited pedestrian infrastructure along certain stretches. Early morning hours can reduce visibility for both drivers and pedestrians, especially along shoulders without dedicated sidewalks. When a serious pedestrian crash occurs here, authorities often close sections of the highway to document the scene, collect evidence, and prevent secondary incidents. License plate reader systems installed throughout the area have become a valuable investigative tool in hit-and-run cases.
What to Do Next
- If you are involved in a crash, remain at the scene and call 911 immediately to report injuries.
- Follow all instructions from responding officers and provide accurate information about what occurred.
- If it is safe, document vehicle descriptions, direction of travel, and nearby landmarks to assist investigators.
- Pedestrians should wear reflective or light-colored clothing and remain alert when walking near high-speed roadways, especially before sunrise.
FAQ
Q: Why might early crash details change?
A: Initial information is often preliminary, and investigators may update facts after reviewing evidence and witness accounts.
Q: How are hit-and-run drivers identified?
A: Authorities may use witness statements, vehicle debris, surveillance footage, and license plate reader data to trace the vehicle involved.
Q: Why would a highway be closed after a pedestrian crash?
A: Road closures allow investigators to collect evidence, measure the scene, and ensure safety before traffic resumes.
