Union, NJ (March 27, 2026) – An elderly woman died on Thursday after being struck by a cargo van while crossing a street in Union.
The crash occurred around 1:30 p.m. on March 27 at the intersection of Oakland Avenue and Vauxhall Road. Police reported that the woman was in the crosswalk when the van hit and dragged her.
She was found unconscious at the scene and transported to University Hospital, where she later died during surgery. The cargo van involved was towed to Union police headquarters.
Oakland Ave between Vauxhall Rd and Earl St was closed for several hours while responders processed the scene.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident, and more details will be released as they become available. Our condolences go out to the victim’s loved ones.
Pedestrian Safety at Intersections
Pedestrian accidents at intersections often occur even when individuals are in crosswalks. Drivers may fail to notice someone crossing due to distractions, blind spots, or misjudging speed.
Vehicles with larger mass, such as cargo vans or trucks, can cause more severe injuries, and even low-speed impacts may result in critical trauma or fatalities.
Urban intersections can also pose risks due to multiple lanes of traffic, turning vehicles, and limited visibility. Clear crosswalk markings, attentive driving, and obeying traffic signals are key factors in reducing the likelihood of pedestrian collisions.
