Toms River police are investigating a car accident that occurred yesterday on Route 37.
According to police, on Tuesday, January 19, at approximately 4:00 p.m. police units were dispatched to Route 37 eastbound, near the GSP South entrance ramp for reports of a motor vehicle accident and downed pole.
Police report that Avery Murch, 25 of Weare NH, and Thomas Holl, 32 of Toms River, were both traveling south on the Garden State Parkway at the intersection of Route 37.
According to the investigation, Mr. Holl had entered the right lane to access the exit ramp as Mr. Murch, who was driving to the left of Mr. Holl, also attempted to access the right exit lane.
In the process, Mr. Murch’s vehicle sideswiped Mr. Holl’s vehicle and then continued onto the exit ramp. After reaching Route 37 W eastbound, Mr. Murch’s vehicle exited the roadway to the right and struck a curb, then continued off-road and struck a street sign and a utility pole.
According to police, Mr. Murch attempted to flee east on Route 37 but subsequently hit a cement wall under the overpass, causing his vehicle to become totally disabled.
Mr. Murch was exhibiting signs of impairment and was arrested and charged with DWI, and his vehicle was impounded as per John’s Law.
Mr. Murch was charged with Driving Under the Influence, Reckless Driving, Revoked Driver’s License, Failure to Report an Accident, Leaving the Scene of Property Damage, and Operating with Drugs in the Vehicle.
The accident is under investigation by the Toms River Police.