Driver identified as George C. Sears Jr., 82, of Toms River

WOODLAND TOWNSHIP, N.J. — An 82-year-old Toms River man died and his wife was seriously injured Monday afternoon after their SUV left the roadway, crashed into a Burlington County home, and burst into flames, according to New Jersey State Police.

Authorities identified the driver as George C. Sears Jr., 82, of Toms River. State Police said Sears was traveling southbound on Route 563 near milepost 42.9 in Woodland Township at approximately 2 p.m. when he suffered an apparent medical emergency behind the wheel. The vehicle then left the roadway, struck two fences, and slammed into an occupied home before igniting in flames.

The fire quickly spread from the SUV to the residence, causing significant damage before firefighters were able to bring the blaze under control.

Sears was pronounced dead following the crash, while his passenger, identified by multiple reports as his wife, Susan Sears, 76, suffered serious injuries and was transported to a hospital. 6abc reported she was flown to Cooper University Hospital and listed in critical condition.

Despite the violent impact and ensuing fire, the occupants of the home escaped without physical injuries. According to neighbors, the vehicle crashed into a bedroom area of the house while the elderly homeowners and their dog were inside. Fortunately, they were not in the room at the time of the collision.

The crash occurred along a curved section of Route 563, an area that neighbors say has experienced numerous accidents over the years. Resident Benito Rinaudo told media outlets that he has repeatedly raised concerns about safety along the roadway, even installing warning lights and other measures in an effort to improve visibility around the curve.

“It’s horrible for my neighbors who are 80 years old being displaced right now,” Rinaudo told 6abc. He also noted that several crashes have occurred in the area over the years, with what he described as increasing severity.

Emergency crews from multiple agencies responded to the scene, where firefighters battled both the vehicle fire and flames extending into the home. Images from the aftermath showed extensive damage to the residence, including portions of the roof and exterior structure.

New Jersey State Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Authorities have indicated that a medical episode may have contributed to the incident, but the official cause remains under investigation. [fox29.com], [6abc.com]

Sources

• NJ.com: SUV crash and fire kills driver, injures passenger in Woodland Township : SUV crash and fire kills driver, injures passenger in Woodland Township – nj.com
• 6abc Philadelphia: Man dies, wife critically injured after car crashes into Burlington County home and catches fire (View Report)
• FOX 29 Philadelphia: Driver, 82, dead after losing control of car, slamming into Woodland Township home (View Report)