WASHINGTON BOROUGH, Warren County, N.J., Oct. 24, 2026 — A tractor-trailer crashed into a bagel and deli shop Thursday morning, October 22, along Route 31 in Washington Borough. Early reports indicated that as many as six people had been hurt.
The crash happened around 10:30 a.m. at Muheisen Bagel & Deli, located at 29 Route 31 near Youmans Avenue. The tractor-trailer, which bore the name Gary W. Gray, struck the storefront, prompting an emergency response to the scene.
Washington Collision Center later removed the truck from the property. It remains unclear what caused the vehicle to leave the roadway and strike the building, and whether the driver or anyone inside the shop was injured has not been officially confirmed.
The Washington Business Improvement District issued a statement of support for the shop's owners, calling the business part of the fabric of the community and extending sympathy to the Muheisen family, their employees and customers.
The investigation appears to be ongoing. We wish the injured a speedy recovery.
More on Crashes in Washington Borough, NJ
This truck crash happened at Route 31 and Youmans Avenue in Washington Borough, NJ. We cover crashes across Warren County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Warren County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I'm involved in a crash with a commercial truck?
Call 911, move to safety if possible, and seek medical evaluation even if injuries seem minor. Get the names of witnesses and, if you can, photograph the scene before vehicles are moved.
Why do large trucks need more distance to stop than cars?
Fully loaded tractor-trailers can weigh tens of thousands of pounds more than passenger vehicles, so their brakes need far more distance and time to bring them to a stop, especially at low speeds in tight commercial areas.
What makes truck crashes more dangerous than typical car accidents?
The size and weight difference between a truck and a car, building, or pedestrian means even a low-speed impact can cause serious structural damage or injury.
What are a truck's blind spots and why do they matter?
Tractor-trailers have large blind spots along both sides, in front of the cab, and behind the trailer. Drivers and pedestrians should stay out of these zones whenever possible, since the truck driver may not see them at all.
What to Do After a Truck Accident in Washington Borough, NJ
If you're nearby or involved when a commercial truck crash happens, move away from the vehicle and any damaged structure as quickly and safely as you can. Check yourself and others for injuries, and call 911 right away even if everything looks fine on the surface. Adrenaline can mask pain, so a medical evaluation in the hours afterward is worth the time. If you own or work in a business affected by a crash like this, document the damage for insurance purposes and reach out to local officials about safety inspections before reopening. Lean on neighbors and community resources. Small business owners in particular often find that support from local organizations makes the recovery process easier to manage.
