JACKSON — A 16-year-old Jackson resident died after his car was struck head-on by a pickup on East Veterans Highway near Westlake Court, according to police.
Police Chief Matthew Kunz told Jersey Shore Online that the pickup was traveling east when it crossed the center line and collided with the teen’s westbound vehicle.
Officers were notified just before 6 p.m. of a two-vehicle crash at the intersection; initial reports indicated one car was on fire and bystanders were attempting to pull out an occupant. While first responders were en route, dispatchers reported CPR was underway on a victim.
Police and firefighters arrived to find one vehicle fully engulfed. Resuscitation efforts continued as the fire was extinguished.
The teen suffered serious injuries and was transported by Jackson EMS to Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus in Lakewood, where he was pronounced dead.
Authorities have not determined why the pickup veered into the opposite lane. The investigation is ongoing.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Jackson Police Officer Tristan Bennett at 732-928-1111 or email tbennett@jacksontwpnj.net.
