Sparta Township, NJ (May 18, 2026) – A 21-year-old man died early Sunday morning, May 17, after a single-vehicle crash on Route 15 near Layton Lane. The collision occurred around 12:45 a.m., according to Sparta Police.
Officials said a 2025 Kia K4 driven by Ryan Mullins of Morris Township was traveling northbound when, for reasons still under investigation, the vehicle left the roadway. The car struck a guardrail, became airborne over nearby railroad tracks, and came to rest in a wooded area off the roadway.
Mullins was pronounced dead at the scene. Two female passengers in the vehicle were able to exit on their own and were transported to a hospital for evaluation and treatment. Both were later released, police said.
Route 15 was closed for approximately nine hours while emergency crews secured the area and investigators documented the scene. Authorities were assisted by New Jersey State Police and the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office.
The crash remains under investigation.
We extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the victim.
What Is Commonly Reviewed in High-Speed Single-Vehicle Road Departure Crashes?
Single-vehicle crashes that involve roadway departure are often examined by analyzing speed, steering input, and roadway conditions before the vehicle left the road. Investigators typically review whether a driver lost control due to distraction, fatigue, or a sudden maneuver.
Guardrail impacts and vehicle trajectory are key pieces of evidence, especially in cases where a car becomes airborne or travels off elevated road sections. Damage patterns help reconstruct the sequence of events and point of initial impact.
Because these crashes often occur at night or early morning hours, visibility, lighting, and roadway design are also commonly assessed. Additional findings are usually released after a full scene reconstruction is completed.
