Pedestrian Killed in Washington Township Hit-and-Run; Police Seek Witnesses

A tragic hit-and-run in Washington Township, New Jersey, resulted in the death of 58-year-old John DeMarco of Turnersville on Monday night. The incident occurred around 8 p.m. as DeMarco was walking along Fries Mill Road near the intersection with Adele Drive. Authorities report that an unidentified vehicle struck him before fleeing the scene, leaving him critically injured on the roadway.

First responders rushed DeMarco to Cooper University Hospital in Camden, but despite their efforts, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival. Initial findings from the Washington Township Police Department indicate that DeMarco was walking in the southbound lane when the vehicle struck him, though it remains unclear if he was crossing the road or walking along its edge. The driver of the vehicle left the scene before law enforcement arrived, a factor that has added urgency to the ongoing investigation.

To allow police to conduct a thorough on-scene investigation, Fries Mill Road was temporarily closed for about two hours Monday night. Investigators are now working to piece together the circumstances of the collision, though they have yet to release specific details regarding the type or color of the vehicle involved. This lack of information has prompted a public appeal for anyone with relevant details to come forward.

The Washington Township Police Department is actively seeking witnesses or individuals who may have been in the area around the time of the accident. Officer Frank Cicalese is leading the investigation and has urged any potential witnesses to contact him directly at fjcicalese@pd.twp.washington.nj.us. Alternatively, tips can be directed to the department’s detective bureau at 856-589-0330, as police strive to identify the driver responsible.

This incident marks another hit-and-run tragedy in the area, underscoring concerns about pedestrian safety and the responsibility of drivers to stop after accidents. Washington Township officials expressed their condolences to DeMarco’s family and emphasized the importance of community cooperation in providing information that could assist the investigation.

As police continue their efforts, DeMarco’s family and friends are left grappling with their sudden loss. Authorities are hopeful that community support will help bring justice in the case, providing DeMarco’s loved ones with answers and aiding law enforcement in holding the driver accountable. The police department has stressed that even small details could be crucial, urging anyone with information to assist in this important investigation.