Bicyclist Critical After Hit & Run, Driver Faces Several Charges

File Photo

TOMS RIVER – A Toms River man remains in critical condition at a shore area trauma center after being hit by a vehicle while riding a bicycle. The suspect, who allegedly had an opened alcoholic beverage in his vehicle, fled the scene before being arrested.

Toms River Police Spokesperson Jillian Messina said the accident happened on Sunday, July 28 shortly before 9 p.m.

37-year-old Vicente Guzman of Toms River was riding his bike on James Street when he was hit head on by 29-year-old Anthony Cipolletti of Bayville.

Anthony Cipolletti (Photo courtesy Ocean County Jail)

The crash sent Guzman into the eastbound lane of the roadway. Police said that Cipolletti briefly stopped after the impact but then fled the scene without reporting the incident.

Messina said the crash caused front end and windshield damage to Cipolletti’s vehicle. Police were called to the scene.

Authorities said that Cipolletti returned to the scene of the collision on his way to his next destination and was promptly arrested by officers.

Guzman was airlifted to Jersey Shore University Medical Center with serious injuries. He is listed in critical but stable condition.

Upon his arrest and following an investigation, Cipolletti was cited for DWI, Reckless Driving, Leaving the Scene of an Accident with Injures, Failure to Report an Accident, Open Container in a Vehicle, Driving with a Suspended License, Unlicensed Driver as well as additional charges.

Cipolletti remains at the Ocean County Jail.

The accident probe is being handled by Traffic Safety Officer Robert Westfall.