Fatal Wrong-Way Accident in Ocean County Claims Life, Injures Another

Fatal Wrong-Way Accident in Ocean County Claims Life, Injures Another

A wrong-way collision on Route 88 near Ocean University Medical Center resulted in the death of a Newark man and the serious injuries of a Brick Township woman, according to Brick Township police on Tuesday.

According to Patrol Officer Victoria Finelli, Joao R. Luiz, 51, of Newark, passed away from injuries sustained in the collision that occurred on December 29 just before 5 p.m.

According to Finelli, Cathe J. Schaefer, 67, of Brick, was hospitalized after suffering severe injuries.

The initial investigation indicates that a 2021 Kia Sportage, operated by Cathe J. Schaefer, 67, of Brick, exited Ocean Medical Center, 425 Jack Martin Boulevard, and made a left turn onto Route 88, continuing eastbound in the westbound lane of travel.

As the Kia traveled the wrong way in the westbound lane past Edge Street, it collided head-on with a 2005 Toyota Corolla traveling westbound on Route 88, operated by Joao R. Luiz, 51, of Newark. The impact caused both vehicles to rotate, with the Kia coming to final rest along the eastbound curb line and the Toyota coming to final rest in the westbound shoulder.

One of the casualties was removed from their car by the Laurelton Fire Department after they arrived on the scene. Processing the site was aided by the Ocean County Sherriff's Department Crime site Investigation team. On-site assistance was also provided by Hatzolah EMS.

Brick EMS/Rescue took both drivers to Ocean Medical Center so they may receive additional care. Later, Ocean Medical Center declared Mr. Luiz deceased when he passed away from his wounds.

The Brick Township Police Department Traffic Safety Unit is still investigating the collision. Brick Township Police Officer Daniel Fogarty can be reached at (732) 262-1141 by anyone who may have seen the crash or has more information.