'Heartbroken' Family Seeks Help After Bridgewater Dad Killed In I-287 Hit And Run

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — A fundraiser has been set up for the family of Erik Salemke, 38, of Bridgewater, who was killed in a hit-and-run while trying to cross Interstate 287 last week.

"I am heartbroken and at a loss for words to express my deep grief. Erik was the primary breadwinner for our family. I am now a single mom to our precious baby girl, Eva Marie Salemke, who is 8 months old," wrote his fiancé Chelsea Cordero on the GoFundMe page.

Cordero said the family did not have any life insurance or real savings. She set up the fundraiser to collect donations to help with funeral costs and other upcoming expenses.

"Thank you from the bottom of my heart for any assistance you may be able to provide. I truly appreciate it as it will ease the worry that accompanies my pain," write Cordero.

As of Wednesday, nearly $6,000 has been raised on the GoFundMe page. To donate click here.

"We will miss him dearly. Please don’t forget to hug your loved ones extra tight today," said Cordero.

The crash happened just before 9:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 20, when New Jersey State Troopers were called to a motor vehicle crash on I-287 North at milepost 21.8 in Bedminster Township, New Jersey State Police(NJSP) Trooper Charles Marchan said.

A preliminary investigation found that a pedestrian, identified as Salemke, was crossing I-287 North in the area of 21.8 when he was hit by an unknown vehicle that did not stop, said Marchan.

A Volvo tractor-trailer was driving north on I-287 and hit Salemke who was already down in the roadway after being hit by the unknown vehicle, said Marchan.

As a result of the crash, Salemke died from his injuries, said Marchan.

The crash remains under investigation and there is no additional information available at the moment.

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.