By: Richard L. Smith
A Newark man has been charged in connection with a deadly single-car crash on Route 46 West in Hasbrouck Heights, according to a statement released by the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office.
The crash, which occurred early Sunday, December 1, 2024, claimed the life of one passenger and left another critically injured.
Authorities stated that the investigation revealed 36-year-old Jose M. Sumba Astudillo was driving a 2019 Hyundai when it collided with a highway divider around 2:28 a.m.
Responding officers initially found Sumba Astudillo and two other occupants injured. Tragically, 57-year-old Angel S. Uzhca Yadaicela of Elmwood Park was pronounced dead after being transported to Hackensack University Medical Center.
Another passenger remains hospitalized in critical condition.
Initially, Sumba Astudillo told officers he was a passenger and claimed the driver fled the scene.
However, further investigation by the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Fatal Accident Investigation Unit determined he had provided false information and was, in fact, the driver at the time of the crash.
On December 1, Sumba Astudillo was charged with providing false information, hindering apprehension, and obstructing justice. A subsequent investigation on December 2 revealed that he was under the influence of alcohol during the crash.
Additional charges, including death by auto, aggravated assault, and operating a vehicle while unlicensed, were filed against him.
Sumba Astudillo is currently in custody at the Bergen County Jail and is awaiting further court proceedings.
The case remains under investigation by the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office and local law enforcement.