While riding, Mr. Maffia encountered the crest of a hill, which led to a steep, approximately ten-foot drop. As a result, he was ejected from the bike and collided face-first with a sand embankment.

Mr. Maffia was wearing a DOT-approved helmet at the time of the collision and sustained severe injuries.

He was transported to Community Medical Center in Toms River by Manchester EMS, where he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead.

Assisting at the scene were emergency medical technicians from the Manchester Township Division of Emergency Services, paramedics from Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, the Manchester Volunteer Fire Department, the Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Department, the Whiting Volunteer Fire Department, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit and Priced Rite Towing.

The investigation into the crash is ongoing, but at this point, the unsafe operation of a dirt bike on private property is considered the primary contributing factor. This crash is being investigated by Ptl. Brendan Brush of the department’s Traffic Safety Unit.

The Manchester Township Police Department would like to remind the public that the Heritage Minerals or “ASARCO” site is private property. It is closed for recreational and/or other use and it is a criminal offense to enter or remain on the property.

In the interest of public safety, the Manchester Township Police urges everyone to obey the “No Trespassing” signs posted at the site. Trespassers are subject to substantial fines and penalties up to and including incarceration for being on the property.

N.Y. man dead in dirt bike crash at private mining lake in N.J., police say