HOWELL TOWNSHIP, Monmouth County, N.J., Oct. 29, 2026 — Two drivers were seriously injured Tuesday afternoon, October 27, when four vehicles collided on Route 33 in Howell Township, according to police. Three people were taken to the hospital after the crash.
The Howell Township Police Department said the collision was reported around 4:44 p.m. in front of The Cabin restaurant. Investigators said an 18-year-old Manasquan resident driving a 2001 Jeep Cherokee struck a stopped 2019 Honda Civic driven by a 71-year-old Point Pleasant resident.
Police said the impact pushed the Honda into a 2020 Subaru Forester driven by a 28-year-old Howell resident, which was then shoved into a 2017 Ford Explorer operated by a 38-year-old Howell resident.
The Jeep driver and the Honda driver suffered serious injuries and were taken to a hospital, according to the report. The Subaru driver was treated for minor injuries at a hospital, while the Ford driver was evaluated at the scene and released. Names of those involved have not been released.
Crews from Howell Police EMS, Howell Township First Aid & Rescue Squad 1, Atlantic Health Paramedics and the Adelphia Fire Department responded alongside police. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, and anyone with information has been asked to contact Howell Township police.
Our thoughts are with those who were injured, and we wish them a full recovery.
More on Crashes in Howell Township, NJ
This crash happened on Route 33 in Howell Township, NJ. We cover crashes across Monmouth County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Monmouth County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is distracted driving considered such a serious risk on the road?
Taking eyes or attention off the road for even a few seconds removes a driver's ability to react to a stopped or slowing vehicle ahead, which is often how chain-reaction crashes like this one begin.
How do road and weather conditions play into multi-vehicle crashes?
Wet pavement, glare, or heavy traffic can shorten the time a driver has to stop safely, increasing the chance that one vehicle rear-ends another and sets off a pileup.
What should someone do right after being in a car accident?
Check for injuries, move to a safe spot if possible, call 911, and exchange information with other drivers. It's also wise to get checked by a medical provider even if injuries aren't immediately obvious.
Where do most traffic accidents tend to happen?
Crashes are common on busy multi-lane roads and highways, especially near intersections, shopping areas, or spots where traffic frequently slows or stops, similar to the stretch of Route 33 involved here.
What to Do After a Multi-Vehicle Crash in Howell Township, NJ
Being involved in a chain-reaction crash can leave drivers disoriented about what happened and who was involved. Stay in a safe location, turn on hazard lights if your vehicle is drivable, and wait for police to arrive and document the scene. Even if you feel fine, seek a medical evaluation soon afterward, since injuries from sudden impacts aren't always apparent right away. Keep a copy of the police report and any medical records in case you need them later, and reach out to your insurance company to begin the claims process. If you're unsure about next steps, Howell Township's local non-emergency police line can help point you toward the right resources.