Jersey City, NJ (April 21, 2025) – A 37-year-old pedestrian sustained serious injuries earlier this month following a targeted hit-and-run collision in Jersey City. The incident occurred at approximately 1:30 a.m. on April 7, near Bay St and Erie St, and resulted in the arrest of the alleged driver several days later.
First responders, including emergency medical services and Jersey City Fire and Rescue, rushed to the scene to provide immediate care to the injured pedestrian. The victim was transported to a nearby medical facility with serious injuries following the intentional vehicle strike.
According to the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, the driver, identified as Hassan Degregoda, struck the pedestrian with his vehicle after the two were involved in a heated dispute. Authorities also reported that Degregoda had a firearm at the time of the incident, escalating the severity of the charges against him.
Degregoda now faces multiple charges, including aggravated assault, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and assault by auto. Additional motor vehicle and weapons charges have also been filed. He was taken into custody several days after the incident, following a swift investigation by local law enforcement.
As the case proceeds, officials have not yet released the identity of the injured individual. The victim remains under medical care, and updates regarding their condition have not been made public. This deeply disturbing act has shaken the community and renewed concerns about escalating violence and roadway safety.
Our thoughts are with those affected by this accident.
Pedestrian Hit-and-Run Incidents in New Jersey
Intentional vehicular assaults like the one reported on Bay and Erie Streets highlight the dangerous convergence of personal disputes and traffic violence in urban environments. In New Jersey, pedestrian safety has become a growing public concern, especially in cities like Jersey City, where high foot traffic and busy intersections increase the risk of injury.
What makes this incident especially alarming is the nature of the assault—one that appears to have been deliberate and occurred shortly after a verbal altercation. According to state traffic safety reports, while most pedestrian collisions stem from negligence or distraction, a subset involves intentional harm, and these cases carry significant criminal penalties.
New Jersey law classifies vehicles as deadly weapons in situations where they are used to intentionally cause injury, and this distinction plays a critical role in prosecuting aggravated assault charges. The additional presence of a firearm during the incident underscores the need for both public safety awareness and legal action to prevent further tragedies.
Local residents have voiced concerns about pedestrian visibility and late-night activity near Bay and Erie Streets, a dense residential and commercial corridor. Enhanced street lighting, surveillance coverage, and proactive patrols have been suggested as potential deterrents for similar acts.
If you or someone you care about has been injured in a hit-and-run, especially under violent or suspicious circumstances, it’s essential to seek both medical care and legal guidance. These cases often involve criminal investigations in addition to civil claims, and understanding your rights can be the first step in achieving justice and recovery.
No one should have to face the aftermath of a violent hit-and-run alone. At Local Accident Reports, we’re committed to connecting injured pedestrians and their families with compassionate professionals who understand your rights and the urgent steps to protect them. From legal support to recovery resources, our team is here for you. Take the next step today and get the support you need to begin your path to healing.
