Three Killed by Tractor-Trailer on New Jersey Turnpike

Posted on: December 9, 2025

Three people were killed Sunday after a tractor-trailer crashed into a stopped SUV on the New Jersey Turnpike. State Police reported that a GMC SUV was stopped on the right shoulder at milepost 64 near East Windsor Township. The driver was waiting for assistance outside the vehicle, and one adult and two juveniles remained inside.

A southbound Peterbilt tractor-trailer veered onto the shoulder and struck the back of the GMC. The driver was killed, along with the adult front-seat passenger and one juvenile inside the SUV, as a result of the impact. The second juvenile suffered minor injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital. The crash is still under investigation.

Disabled vehicles along high-speed highways face significant risk, as drivers have limited time to react to stopped traffic on the shoulder, especially large commercial trucks. Safety officials urge motorists to move as far from active travel lanes as possible, activate hazard lights, and stay inside the vehicle with seat belts fastened when safe to do so.

Tractor-trailer crashes on major roadways like the Turnpike often cause severe or fatal injuries due to their size and momentum. Even a brief drift out of the lane can lead to catastrophic consequences when a truck enters the shoulder. Drivers are encouraged to slow down and move over for stopped vehicles to help prevent tragic accidents like this one.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash, call the experienced car accident lawyers at Ellis Law at 732-308-0200 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation. With offices in New Jersey and New York, we proudly serve clients throughout both states.