West Deptford Mourns the Loss of Jay Hill After Tragic Crash on Route 295
WEST DEPTFORD, NJ — July 26, 2025 — A cherished member of the West Deptford community has died following a devastating single-car crash on Route 295, authorities confirmed Monday night. Jay Hill, a local car enthusiast known for his deep passion for classic vehicles, succumbed to critical injuries sustained in the wreck after battling for two days in the intensive care unit at Cooper University Hospital in Camden.
According to the New Jersey State Police, Hill was driving alone in his meticulously restored 1966 blue Chevrolet Nova, a vintage car he often showcased at local automotive events. The accident happened while he was heading home from a car meet, traveling northbound on Route 295 near Exit 10.
Preliminary reports indicate that Hill’s rear tire suddenly blew out, causing him to lose control of the vehicle. The Chevy veered across the roadway before slamming violently into a guardrail. No other vehicles were involved in the collision, and weather conditions at the time were reportedly clear.
Emergency responders arrived swiftly at the scene and determined the injuries were life-threatening. Hill was airlifted via New Jersey State Police helicopter to Cooper’s Level I Trauma Center.
Heroic Medical Efforts Could Not Save Him
Hill arrived unconscious at the hospital and remained in critical condition for two full days. Doctors performed multiple emergency surgeries in an effort to save his life. Despite their efforts, Hill suffered three cardiac arrests during that time. On Monday evening at 9:19 p.m., trauma specialists declared him brain dead.
Shortly afterward, his devastated family made the heart-wrenching decision to remove life support. Hill passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.
“This is the hardest thing we’ve ever faced,” a family statement read. “Jay was our heart. He loved hard, lived passionately, and left us far too soon.”
A Community Stunned, A Passion Lost
News of Hill’s sudden passing spread quickly throughout West Deptford and the regional classic car community, where he was a well-known and beloved figure. Friends say his 1966 Nova was more than a car — it was a lifelong dream he had poured his soul into.
“Jay was the kind of guy who didn’t just build a car — he built a family around it,” said longtime friend Marcus Tully, who had attended the car event with Hill that same day. “That Nova was his baby. He had just detailed it that morning. We’re all shattered.”
Hill’s Instagram page, filled with photos of the car’s custom rebuild and local car shows, has since become a memorial wall as friends post tributes and memories.
Many describe Jay as warm, funny, and deeply loyal. “He was always the guy who stayed late to help someone fix a flat or give advice to a teen just getting into cars,” said another friend. “He had a heart bigger than his engine block.”
Investigation Ongoing, Funeral Plans Pending
State Police investigators are still reviewing the cause of the tire blowout, though no foul play is suspected. The tire’s condition will be part of the mechanical inspection now underway.
At this time, the Hill family has not yet announced public arrangements, but they have stated that a memorial service will be organized once details are finalized. Supporters are asked to continue sharing photos, stories, and condolences in the meantime.
A GoFundMe or community support fund is expected to be created in the coming days to help the family with funeral costs and to honor Jay’s legacy.
Gone Too Soon, But Never Forgotten
Jay Hill’s tragic death has left a void in West Deptford and beyond. His love of life, cars, and community left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. Though his Nova now sits still, the roar of his spirit continues in the lives he touched.