By: Richard L. Smith
A Piscataway resident is facing serious charges in connection with a deadly hit-and-run accident that claimed the life of a pedestrian in Plainfield, according to information released by Union County Prosecutor William A. Daniel and Plainfield Police Director James Abney.
Shernice Benbow, 62, has been charged with second-degree leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death and third-degree endangering an injured victim.
The charges stem from a collision that occurred on the 400 block of East Front Street in Plainfield, where 67-year-old Jennifer Harris was struck and killed by a vehicle.
Plainfield police officers responded to the scene and found Harris unresponsive. She was pronounced dead on-site.
Following a months-long investigation, Benbow was arrested and taken into custody without incident.
Officials did not provide further details about what led investigators to identify Benbow as the driver. Still, they praised the collaborative efforts of the Union County Prosecutor’s Office and the Plainfield Police Department.
“While this arrest does not bring Ms. Harris back, we hope it offers some measure of comfort to her loved ones,” Prosecutor Daniel said.
Plainfield Police Director James T. Abney echoed those sentiments, stating, “We hope this arrest marks the beginning of healing for the Harris family.
Our officers remain committed to supporting them through this difficult time.”
Authorities are continuing to investigate and encourage anyone with information to come forward.
Tips can be directed to Union County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide Task Force Detective Alex Lanza at 908-527-4645, Plainfield Police Sergeant Chanel Johnson at 908-226-2517, or Plainfield Police Detective Hans Noriega at 732-540-0395.