By: Richard L. Smith
Two New Providence Police Officers were injured in a chain reaction crash during a routine traffic stop on Interstate 78 near mile marker 43.
The incident occurred at approximately 5:01 p.m. when the officers, in marked police vehicles with emergency lights activated, were conducting a motor vehicle stop on the westbound shoulder of the highway.
A westbound Honda Odyssey collided with the rear of one of the New Providence patrol vehicles, setting off a chain reaction that pushed the first patrol car into a second police vehicle and then into the Mercedes Benz that had been pulled over by the officers.
Both officers sustained injuries and were transported to Morristown Memorial Hospital, where they are reported to be in stable condition.
The driver of the Honda Odyssey also sustained injuries and was taken to the same hospital for treatment.
The occupants of the Mercedes Benz, who were inside a tow truck at the time of the crash, were evaluated by emergency medical services on the scene and released without injury.
The crash prompted a substantial emergency response, including units from the Berkeley Heights Fire Department, New Providence Fire Department, Union County Fire Command, Berkeley Heights EMS, Union County EMS, and Atlantic Paramedics.
Additionally, the New Jersey State Police, Berkeley Heights Police Department, Summit Police Department, and New Jersey Department of Transportation were on scene.
The New Jersey State Police are currently investigating the circumstances of the crash. Further updates will be provided as the investigation continues.
