By: Richard L. Smith
A devastating accident on Friday night has left a community in mourning after a vehicle carrying six individuals plunged off a Newark bridge and burst into flames.
Essex County Prosecutor’s Office officials said the incident occurred at approximately 10:47 p.m. at the intersection of Raymond Boulevard and Blanchard Street, as the vehicle traveled toward the 1&9 Southbound on-ramp.
According to the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Crime Scene Investigations Bureau, the vehicle veered off the roadway while on the bridge ramp.
Authorities reported that the car became airborne before colliding with a support column of the Pulaski Skyway.
Upon impact with the ground, the vehicle erupted in flames, tragically killing all six occupants.
Among the victims were two Hudson Catholic High School football coaches, brothers Lamar and Darryl McKnight, and assistant coach Brad Cunningham.
The remaining three victims have not yet been publicly identified. The loss of the coaches has sent shockwaves through the Hudson Catholic community, which remembers them as passionate mentors and beloved figures.
New Jersey State Senator Angela McKnight, who is related to the McKnight brothers, expressed her sorrow on social media, writing: "Please say a prayer for my family. Darryl and Lamar, may you rest in peace. This hurts... #TheMcKnights."
Details surrounding the crash remain unclear, including who was driving the vehicle and where the group was headed prior to the accident.
The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office is leading the investigation and plans to hold a press conference on Monday, December 9th, at 3 p.m. to provide further updates.
This tragedy has left an indelible mark on the Newark community, with many grappling to process the sudden loss of six lives.
As investigators work to piece together what led to this heartbreaking accident, friends, family, and colleagues are left to mourn and honor the memories of those lost in the fiery crash.