Monmouth Co., NJ (February 19, 2026) – A woman and her two young sons were injured after an SUV struck them outside Bloom Academy in Monmouth County on Wednesday, February 18. The incident happened near the front entrance of the preschool and was captured on CCTV footage.
Authorities said a grey SUV driven by 68-year-old Angela Arrigo crashed into the family near the doorway. The vehicle hit a pillar as the mother, identified as Patrice Pisani, tried to pull one child out of the way. Her youngest son was knocked to the ground, and a tire bounced off his leg. The older child was pushed into a railing by the force of the collision.
Emergency units rushed the family to a nearby hospital, where they received treatment for their injuries. Arrigo was later arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as they become available. We are thinking of those injured as they receive medical care.
How Speeding and Impaired Driving Increase the Risk of Pedestrian
Pedestrian crashes near schools can happen quickly, especially during busy arrival and pickup times. Areas around preschools often have families walking close to entrances, which increases the need for careful driving.
Speeding reduces a driver’s reaction time and makes it harder to stop when someone steps into view. Alcohol use can further affect judgment, coordination, and awareness. These factors combined can raise the risk of serious injuries.
School zones are typically designed with safety features like signs, speed limits, and barriers. Even so, drivers are expected to stay alert and adjust their speed. Paying close attention and avoiding distractions can help reduce the chance of a crash in areas where children and families are present.
