šØš„ DWI CRASH INTO SENIOR LIVING FACILITY PROMPTS MASS EVACUATION IN GALLOWAY TOWNSHIP š
A Mays Landing man faces DWI and assault charges after crashing a van into Ridgewood Senior Living, sparking a fire. More than 100 people were evacuated, and two residents were hospitalized with minor injuries following the high-speed collision.
Galloway Township Police responded late Sunday night, August 2nd, to Ridgewood Senior Living at Historic Smithville after a vehicle crashed into the building and caught fire. Authorities say a 2023 Ram van struck the front of the facility and was actively burning when officers arrived. Working together, emergency responders and facility staff safely evacuated more than 100 residents and employees from the building. Two residents suffered minor injuries and were transported to AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center for treatment. Firefighters quickly extinguished the blaze and prevented further damage to the facility. š The preliminary investigation determined the driver, identified as 40-year-old Eliel Vazquez-Hernandez of Mays Landing, was allegedly traveling at a high rate of speed on Old New York Road before crashing through the Route 9 intersection, entering Historic Smithville Village, striking multiple objects, and ultimately hitting the building. Vazquez-Hernandez was taken into custody on suspicion of driving while intoxicated and faces multiple charges, including Assault by Auto, Criminal Mischief, and Causing or Risking Widespread Injury or Damage. The charges are accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court. āļø š Officials thanked all police, fire, EMS, and emergency personnel who responded and assisted with the evacuation and response.