BRICK — A hit-and-run crash early April 12 caused significant damage to multiple homes and brought down utility poles and power lines, prompting a lengthy road closure, authorities said.
Police responded around 6:20 a.m. to North Lakeshore Drive near Duquesne Boulevard for reports of a motor vehicle accident involving downed poles and live wires. When officers arrived, they found widespread damage in the area, including impacts to several nearby residences.
Officials said the roadway was shut down for several hours due to safety concerns as crews worked to secure the scene. An investigation later determined that eight homes sustained structural damage as a result of the crash.
Traffic Safety Officer Vincent Rustico led the investigation. With the help of surveillance footage from nearby businesses, authorities traced the vehicle involved to a recent delivery at a local establishment.
The driver was identified as Lawrence E. Preston, of Lanham, Maryland. He was issued summonses for leaving the scene of a crash, failing to report an accident, careless driving, making an improper U-turn, and failure to maintain a lane.
No additional information on injuries was immediately released.
