UPDATE: Two Seriously Injured In Head-On Crash On Route 72 In Stafford

Two Manahawkin women were seriously injured in a head-on crash Tuesday evening on Route 72 between Hull Road and Breakers Drive, Patrolman Christopher Fritz said.

Stafford police responded to a head-on motor vehicle collision on Route 72 at 7:54 p.m. on March 8. A 2002 Nissan Sentry operated by Kayla Clickner, 20, Manahawkin, was traveling eastbound on Route 72 when her car and a 2013 Lexus operated by Maureen Gradisher, 69, Manahawkin, collided, he said.

Both drivers suffered significant injuries, but are listed in stable condition. Clickner was taken to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune for treatment. Gradisher was transported to Atlantic City Trauma Center for treatment. Traffic was detoured around the scene during the investigation for approximately three hours.

"Due to the severity of this collision, it is still under investigation and no summons have been issued at this time," Fritz said.

Any witnesses are asked to contact the Stafford Township traffic safety unit: 609-597-1189 X8436.

Earlier story:

Stafford police have issued a traffic advisory asking motorists to avoid Route 72 between Breakers Drive and Hull Road due to a serious traffic accident according to the police department's Facebook page.

Two medical helicopters have been requested, according to the Ocean County Police, Fire & EMS Facebook page.

Detours are in place. Drivers should expect delays. Both the northbound and southbound lanes are now open, Patrolman Christopher Fritz said.