Toms River, NJ (July 31, 2025) – A 50-year-old roadside construction worker was fatally struck by a suspected intoxicated driver early Thursday morning along Route 9 near Raymond Ave in Toms River. The tragic crash occurred around 1 a.m., according to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office.
The worker, who has not yet been publicly identified, was part of an overnight construction crew when a northbound vehicle struck him in the work zone. Emergency responders arrived quickly and transported the victim to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Authorities identified the driver as 51-year-old Douglas Smith of Toms River. He was taken into custody at the scene and charged with driving while intoxicated and reckless driving after exhibiting signs of impairment. Investigators obtained a blood sample from Smith at a local hospital, and additional charges may follow pending toxicology results.
The crash remains under investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, Toms River Police Department, and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit.
Our thoughts are with the family and coworkers of the construction worker during this devastating time.
Roadside Worker Safety and DUI Crashes in New Jersey
Thursday’s fatal crash on Route 9 in Toms River underscores the ongoing dangers faced by construction and utility workers across New Jersey. These individuals perform critical duties—often in low-visibility conditions or overnight shifts—just feet from fast-moving traffic. Tragically, impaired driving continues to be a leading factor in work zone fatalities.
Striking a worker in a clearly marked construction zone not only violates safety protocols—it also demonstrates the grave consequences of driving under the influence. According to New Jersey state law, impaired driving in a work zone carries increased penalties, especially when it results in serious injury or death. While initial charges have been filed against the driver in this case, prosecutors are awaiting further test results to determine whether more serious charges—such as vehicular homicide—may apply.
For the loved ones of the man who was killed, the road ahead will be filled with grief, unanswered questions, and a desire for justice. In addition to coping with the emotional toll, many families face financial hardship due to funeral costs and the sudden loss of income.
This incident also renews urgent calls for stronger enforcement of work zone protections and public education around the dangers of impaired driving. Every driver has a responsibility to remain alert, sober, and cautious—especially when passing through construction areas where lives are literally on the line.
If your family has suffered a loss due to an impaired driving incident, it is critical to seek legal support and counseling services that can help you navigate the aftermath.
A single reckless decision can take a life and shatter a community. At Local Accident Reports, we are committed to raising awareness about these preventable tragedies while helping families find the support they need. If someone you love was hurt or killed in a DUI-related crash, contact us today. We’ll connect you with compassionate professionals who can help guide your next steps with care and clarity.
