Egg Harbor Township, NJ (May 19, 2025) – A devastating accident occurred Saturday afternoon when two children were struck by a vehicle while walking home from Bargaintown Park. The crash happened around 2:20 p.m. at the intersection of Delaware and Fernwood Avenues in Egg Harbor Township, according to local police.
Authorities report that 71-year-old Gary Battisti, a resident of Egg Harbor Township, was driving a 2014 Chevy Camaro eastbound on Delaware Avenue when a 2022 Mini Cooper, operated by 19-year-old Sky Mejiadorado, entered the intersection from the north. In an attempt to avoid a collision with the Mini Cooper, Battisti swerved off the roadway to the right, mounting the grass shoulder where the two children were walking.
One of the children sustained critical injuries and was initially taken to Shore Medical Center before being airlifted to Cooper Medical Center in Camden. Tragically, that child later died due to the severity of their injuries. The second child was treated at the scene for minor injuries and is expected to recover.
The force of the crash caused Battisti’s vehicle to overturn, trapping him inside. Firefighters from multiple departments responded and extricated him from the wreckage. His current condition has not been disclosed.
The roadway was closed for approximately four hours as authorities conducted a thorough on-site investigation. Summonses are pending, and the incident remains under active review by Egg Harbor Township Police.
Our deepest condolences go out to the family of the child who was killed. We also wish a full recovery to the injured child and strength to all involved during this incredibly difficult time.
Pedestrian Safety and Driver Response in Residential New Jersey Areas
This heartbreaking incident in Egg Harbor Township illustrates how quickly a normal afternoon walk can turn into a life-altering tragedy. Intersections like Delaware and Fernwood Avenues often connect neighborhoods to parks, schools, and homes—areas where pedestrian activity is high and extra caution is essential.
The crash occurred as a driver attempted to avoid a collision with another vehicle, leading to an unintended but devastating chain of events. Swerving to avoid crashes is a reflexive maneuver, but it can sometimes direct a vehicle into pedestrians or fixed objects, especially in areas lacking protective barriers.
Children, in particular, are at greater risk in pedestrian-related accidents due to their small size, unpredictability, and the challenges drivers face in spotting them in time. This makes the case for improved intersection design, reduced residential speed limits, and heightened public awareness around parks and school zones.
First responders’ swift actions, including the complex extrication of the trapped driver, reflect the professionalism and urgency required in traumatic crash scenes. However, the loss of a young life remains a sobering reminder of the fragility of road safety.
At Local Accident Reports, we are committed to supporting families and individuals affected by catastrophic accidents. If your loved one has been impacted by a tragedy like this one, reach out today for resources, legal guidance, and compassionate updates tailored to help you through your recovery.
