SUV Driver Hospitalized After Route 79 Crash in Freehold Township as Investigation Continues
A late-night crash on Route 79 in Freehold Township hospitalized an SUV driver and temporarily shut down a major roadway as police continue investigating what caused the collision.
The crash happened Friday, September 18, near Tappan Way in Freehold Township, Monmouth County. According to information attributed to Freehold Township Police, officers responded to the scene at approximately 2:40 a.m. after reports of a serious motor-vehicle crash.
Police Find Overturned SUV at Crash Scene
When officers arrived, they found an overturned SUV with the driver unconscious inside, police said. The driver was transported to an area hospital and was later reported to be in stable condition.
Authorities have not released the driver’s identity or provided details about the specific injuries suffered in the crash. Officials have also not confirmed whether the driver was trapped inside the vehicle or required any specialized rescue equipment.
The crash involved another driver, who stayed at the scene and cooperated with investigators. Police have not released further information about that person, including their identity, vehicle details, or whether they were injured.
Route 79 Closed After Crash and Downed Utility Pole
The collision significantly disrupted motorists traveling through the area. Route 79 was closed in both directions after the crash while emergency crews worked at the scene.
Officials also reported a downed utility pole connected to the incident, adding to the work required before the road could safely reopen. Drivers were advised to avoid the area and use alternate routes during the closure.
The closure affected a broader section of Route 79 than the immediate crash location. Reports referenced different closure points along the roadway, while later police information identified the crash area as near Tappan Way. The safest description of the location is Route 79 near Tappan Way, close to the Marlboro border.
Roadway Reopens After Overnight Closure
Route 79 reopened early Saturday, September 19, after remaining closed through Friday. Authorities did not release an exact reopening time, but the closure continued into the following morning as crews completed their work.
For commuters who rely on Route 79, the crash created delays and forced drivers to find alternative routes while police investigated and crews addressed the damaged infrastructure.
Cause of Crash Remains Under Investigation
Police have not yet determined the cause of the crash. As of Tuesday, September 22, the investigation was still ongoing.
Authorities have not confirmed whether factors such as speeding, distracted driving, impairment, weather conditions, road conditions, or mechanical problems contributed to the collision.
Investigators have also not released details about how the SUV overturned, whether either vehicle struck the utility pole, or what happened in the moments leading up to the crash.
Police Continue Seeking Information
Police are asking anyone who witnessed the crash or has information that could assist the investigation to contact authorities.
Potential witnesses were directed to contact P/O Kurczeski at 732-462-7500 as investigators continue gathering information about the incident.
What Is Known So Far
So far, officials have confirmed that the crash involved an overturned SUV and another driver; one person was hospitalized;; Route 79 was temporarily closed; and the investigation remains active.
Additional details may become available once police complete their investigation or release further updates.
