By: Najla Alexander
Authorities in Hudson County announced the Hudson County Regional Collision Investigation Unit has arrested two individuals in connection with a hit-and-run crash that critically injured a pedestrian on Saturday, August 17, 2024.
Officials stated that Samuel Collazo, 20, of Westfield, is charged with Knowingly Leaving the Scene of a Motor Vehicle Crash Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, Endangering an Injured Victim, Receiving Stolen Property, and Unlawful Taking
Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez said Rylan Cook-Figueroa, 20, of West New York, is charged with Endangering an Injured Victim, and Unlawful Taking.
Both were arrested on Wednesday, August 21, and are being held at the Hudson County Correctional Facility pending their first court appearances, officials say.
Authorities say at approximately 3:40 p.m. on August 17, 2024, the West New York Police Department was notified of a pedestrian struck by a motorcycle in the area of Bergenline Avenue and 57th Street.
According to officials, responding officers located a 54-year-old male from Union City with life-threatening injuries.
The occupant(s) of the motorcycle fled the scene on foot, officials said.
Authorities say the victim remains in critical condition at Jersey City Medical Center.
During the preliminary investigation, officials said, it was determined the vehicle had previously been reported stolen.
Collazo was identified as the operator of the vehicle and Cook-Figueroa was identified as the rear passenger, officials say.