Hackensack, NJ (January 24, 2026) – A 16-year-old boy was seriously injured Thursday morning after being struck by a vehicle while crossing the street in a marked crosswalk at Central Avenue and 2nd Street, directly across from Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Hackensack. The incident occurred around 6:45 a.m., prompting a swift response from emergency personnel and Good Samaritans.
Witnesses said a crossing guard was present at the intersection when the collision occurred. The teen, identified only as “Juan” by those who rushed to his aid, was hit by a vehicle driven by a 79-year-old senior motorist. Bystanders immediately stepped in to support the teen’s head and neck, offering comfort until EMS arrived.
Paramedics transported the teen to Hackensack University Medical Center with injuries described by officials as serious. His current condition has not been made public.
Hackensack police and members of the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Fatal Accident Investigations Unit responded to the scene. City firefighters also assisted. The driver remained at the location and cooperated with authorities.
A city police officer assumed crossing guard duties for the remainder of the day. No summonses have been issued at this time, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Our thoughts are with the injured teen and his family, and we hope for his full and swift recovery.
