STAFFORD — A 17-year-old driver died early Tuesday morning after his pickup truck struck a utility pole and overturned on Route 72 in Manahawkin, police said.
According to Stafford Township Police, officers were dispatched around 1:35 a.m. to the area of Mermaid Drive and Route 72 for a report of a motorist possibly asleep at the wheel.
While en route, patrol units came upon a silver 2005 Ford Ranger that had crashed into a utility pole and rolled over at the intersection of Nautilus Drive.
The teen, whose name was not released, was trapped inside the vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene. His family has been notified, authorities said.
Stafford Township Volunteer Fire Company, local EMS crews, Hackensack Meridian paramedics, and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department responded to assist.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the young driver during this painful time,” the police department said in a statement.
The crash left damage to nearby infrastructure, and crews from the New Jersey Department of Transportation and utility companies remain on site making repairs. Traffic at the intersection is temporarily rerouted, and motorists are advised to use alternate routes.
The incident is under investigation by Stafford Police Traffic Safety Officer G. Demarco. Witnesses are asked to call 609-597-1189 ext. 8456 or email gdemarco@staffordpdnj.gov.
