CRANFORD, N.J. — A tragic crash in Cranford on Monday afternoon claimed the lives of two children after they were struck by a driver on Burnside Avenue, according to the Union County Prosecutor’s Office.
A Routine Day Turns Tragic
At around 5:30 p.m., police, fire, and EMS units from Cranford, joined by first responders from Westfield, rushed to the scene following reports of a serious collision.
Authorities say the two young victims were riding bicycles when they were hit. Both were rushed to nearby hospitals but sadly pronounced dead.
Neighbors described the scene as chaotic, with flashing emergency lights stretching down the block as families gathered in shock.
“This is devastating. They were just kids riding their bikes,” said one resident. “You never expect something like this to happen on a quiet street like ours.”
Driver Apprehended
Officials confirmed the driver involved in the incident was located soon after and taken into custody with the assistance of Cranford and Garwood Police.
Prosecutors have not yet released the driver’s name, nor have they confirmed whether charges have been filed.
Investigation Underway
The case is now being handled by the Union County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide Task Force, alongside Cranford Police detectives.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact:
- Detective Alex Lanza (UCPO Homicide Task Force) at 908-370-4318
- Detective Jason D’Agostino (Cranford PD) at 908-276-0171
Community in Mourning
The victims’ names are being withheld pending notification of family, but word of the tragedy has spread quickly throughout Cranford and Westfield.
Parents, neighbors, and classmates are reeling from the sudden loss, with many describing the crash as “every family’s worst nightmare.”
What Comes Next
Prosecutors emphasized that the investigation remains active and ongoing. More details — including the driver’s identity and potential charges — are expected in the coming days.
For now, Cranford is left grieving the loss of two young lives cut tragically short, as makeshift memorials begin to appear near the scene.
Reporting by NewsPulse Media | Union County, NJ