Mercer Co., NJ (April 27, 2026) – A van passenger was killed and the driver was hurt after their vehicle struck a disabled Mack truck parked on the shoulder of Interstate 295 in Hamilton Township on Friday, April 25. The crash occurred in the afternoon.
The passenger, identified as 25-year-old Daniel Carmelo, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the van suffered minor injuries in the collision. No other injuries were reported.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available. Our sincere condolences go out to Daniel Carmelo’s family and loved ones.
Why Are Crashes Into Stopped Vehicles on New Jersey Highway Shoulders So Dangerous?
Crashes involving vehicles stopped on highway shoulders are a serious and recurring problem on New Jersey interstates like I-295. When a large vehicle such as a Mack truck is parked on the shoulder, it creates a fixed obstacle that a distracted or inattentive driver may not see until it is too late. At highway speeds, the force of impact in these crashes can be devastating, particularly for passengers who have little protection from a direct frontal collision.
Disabled vehicles on the shoulder are especially hazardous when they are not clearly marked with reflective triangles, flares, or emergency lighting. Drivers are generally advised to move over a lane when approaching any stopped vehicle on the shoulder, a requirement backed by New Jersey’s Move Over law. Afternoon traffic conditions, sun glare, and driver fatigue can all reduce reaction time in these situations.
