Union County, NJ (April 12, 2026) – A Union County Sheriff’s Officer was killed Friday morning, April 10, after a motorcycle crash involving a semi-trailer on Interstate 78 in New Jersey.
The crash occurred near milepost 43.4 on Interstate 78 West. Emergency units were dispatched after receiving reports of a serious collision involving a motorcycle and a tractor-trailer hauling a car carrier.
According to preliminary information, 28-year-old Officer Joseph DeVito of Kenilworth was traveling westbound on a motorcycle when the front of his bike collided with the front of a semi-trailer in the right lane. The impact ejected him from the motorcycle.
Despite emergency response efforts, Officer DeVito was pronounced dead from his injuries at the scene. The semi-truck driver, a 32-year-old man from Groveport, Ohio, was not reported to have been injured.
Authorities have not released additional details about what led up to the crash. The incident remains under investigation by state authorities.
We extend our sincere condolences to the officer’s family and loved ones.
How Motorcycle and Semi-Truck Crashes on Highways Can Become Fatal
Collisions involving motorcycles and large commercial vehicles often result in severe or fatal injuries due to the size and weight difference. Even low-angle impacts can cause a rider to be thrown from the motorcycle.
Highway conditions can further increase risk when multiple lanes and higher speeds are involved. Limited visibility around large trucks can also make it difficult for motorcyclists and drivers to see each other in time to avoid contact.
In fatal motorcycle crashes, investigators typically examine lane position, speed, and vehicle movement patterns to determine how the collision occurred. These findings help build a clearer picture of the sequence of events.
