Toms River, NJ – Man Killed in Rt 37 Crash at Romano Ln

Toms River, NJ (January 26, 2026) – A fatal motor vehicle accident claimed the life of a 76-year-old man on Friday night, January 23, at the intersection of Route 37 and Romano Lane in Toms River.

According to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, the crash occurred at approximately 8:50 p.m. when a white Nissan Maxima traveling westbound on Route 37 struck a red Chevrolet Trax that was crossing the highway from Romano Lane. 

The impact caused significant damage into the passenger compartment of the Chevrolet Trax. Emergency responders extricated the victim, who sustained critical injuries. Despite life-saving efforts, he was pronounced dead as a result of the injuries suffered in the crash.

The driver of the Nissan Maxima was transported to a local hospital for treatment of injuries, including a broken femur and possible head injuries. 

The Toms River Police Department was assisted at the scene by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit–Vehicular Homicide Squad and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit. The investigation remains ongoing. 

Our deepest sympathies go out to the deceased victim’s family and loved ones during this challenging time, and we also hope the other person makes a full recovery. 

What Steps Can Families Take After a Fatal Crash in Toms River?

Losing a loved one in a fatal motor vehicle crash can leave families overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. Taking certain steps early on can help protect legal rights and provide clarity during a challenging time, including:

• Obtaining official reports, such as police and crash investigation records, may help clarify how the collision occurred, identify contributing factors noted by authorities, and establish an official timeline of events that may be critical for any future claim.
• Preserving evidence, including photographs, vehicle damage documentation, witness contact information, and any available surveillance or traffic camera footage, can be essential before evidence is lost, altered, or overwritten.
• Documenting expenses, such as funeral and burial costs, medical bills, emergency treatment charges, and other financial losses resulting from the incident, helps families understand the full economic impact of the crash.
• Avoiding statements to insurance companies until legal options are clearly understood can help prevent misinterpretation, incomplete statements, or unintentional admissions that could affect a claim.
• Consulting with a wrongful death attorney can help families understand potential claims, filing deadlines, insurance coverage issues, and the types of compensation that may be available under New Jersey law.

Fatal crashes can create lasting emotional and financial challenges for surviving family members, and understanding available options is an important part of the recovery process.

At Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq, we are dedicated to assisting bereaved families affected by serious and fatal motor vehicle accidents throughout New Jersey. Our wrongful death accident attorneys work to protect the rights of victims and pursue full and fair compensation.  Call us at (800) 923-3456 today to schedule a free consultation.

Notes: Our accident news pieces utilize secondary sources like police and fire accident reports, news articles, and eyewitness testimonies. We have not independently verified this information at Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq. If you find inaccuracies, please contact us for correction. To request post-removal, please inform us, and we will promptly comply.

Disclaimer: This content is not a business solicitation, and none of the information provided should be construed as legal or medical advice. Additionally, the featured image in this post is not from the actual accident scene.