🚨 17-Year-Old Newark Pedestrian Killed in Fatal Crash; Authorities Release New Details
Authorities are investigating a hit-and-run crash that killed a 17-year-old girl in Newark. A sedan fleeing a police officer struck the teenager on Bloomfield Avenue, and both the Essex County Prosecutor and the state Attorney General have launched investigations.
NEWARK, NJ — August 16, 2026 — Authorities have released additional details surrounding a deadly crash that claimed the life of a 17-year-old pedestrian in Newark last weekend, as investigators continue working to determine exactly what led to the collision.
The crash happened shortly before 9 p.m. on August 9 near the intersection of Bloomfield Avenue and Mount Prospect Avenue.
According to the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office, a Newark police sergeant was operating an unmarked police SUV westbound on Bloomfield Avenue when a sedan traveling eastbound at a high rate of speed passed through the area.
Investigators say the officer then made a U-turn near Parker Street and began following the sedan. Shortly afterward, the sedan struck the teenage pedestrian near Mount Prospect Avenue and fled the scene.
The officer stopped and reportedly attempted to render aid. The teen was pronounced deceased at approximately 9:11 p.m.
Because the victim was a juvenile, authorities have not released her name. 💔
🔎 Two Investigations Underway
The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office is investigating the driver of the sedan involved in the fatal crash.
Separately, the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office is investigating the circumstances surrounding the police encounter and the events leading up to the crash.
Both investigations remain active, and no additional information regarding potential charges or the identity of the fleeing driver has been released.
The deadly crash has generated significant concern throughout Newark, with community members calling for additional answers. A balloon-release vigil held earlier this week drew hundreds of people who gathered to remember the teenager. 🎈🕊️
⚠️ Officials Address Online Rumors
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka has also addressed what he described as misinformation circulating online, specifically claims that the crash involved police pursuing a stolen vehicle.
The mayor said the vehicle was not stolen and stated that Newark maintains a policy prohibiting police vehicle pursuits except in limited circumstances involving serious offenses.
Authorities continue to ask anyone with information about the crash or the sedan involved to come forward.
Garden State News Network will continue to monitor this developing investigation and provide updates as additional verified information becomes available. 📰