Officials announced this morning that the driver accused of a hit-and-run accident that killed a 16-year-old boy Monday in Paterson was arrested.
According to Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office, James Reinhardt, 34, of Paterson, was arrested last night and has been charged with leaving the scene of a fatal motor vehicle accident, endangering an injured victim, and causing death while driving on a suspended license.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family that lost their child," said the mayor.
Police responded to the accident on Oak and Beech streets sometime around 6:45 p.m. Monday.
Upon arrival, police found Javier Burgos, 16, suffering serious injuries. Burgos was transported to St. Joseph’s Regional Medical Center, where he had an emergency surgery. He was pronounced dead Monday at 7:26 p.m.
Further investigation revealed that Reinhardt was operating a 2006 Volkswagen Jetta traveling on Beech Street when he reached the intersection where he struck Javier Burgos who was riding his bike in the area.
The investigation also led authorities Monday to the identification of the vehicle’s driver and recovery of the vehicle.
Reinhardt could face a 20-year prison sentence.
Related Story: https://www.rlsmedia.com/article/teen-16-killed-hit-and-run-paterson