Driver Uninjured in Overnight Rollover Crash

The driver of a vehicle that flipped over in West Caldwell overnight was not injured and the cause of the accident remains under investigation, Police Chief Michael Bramhall said Thursday.

According to Bramhall, Christopher Lenihan, 21, of Roseland, lost control of his 1999 Honda sedan that overturned onto the front lawn of 41 Orton Road at about 4 a.m.

Sgt. John Kopf heard the crash while on patrol near James Caldwell High School. When he arrived on Orton Road, Lenihan was already out of his vehicle and later refused medical attention from the West Essex First Aid Squad, Bramhall said.

The West Caldwell Fire Department also responded to the scene because of a gasoline odor, Bramhall said.

Lenihan, who was the only person in the vehicle, told police he was wearing his seatbelt while traveling northbound on Orton Road when his car overturned, according to Bramhall, who said the roadway was wet from overnight rain.

Alcohol did not appear to be a factor and a summons has not yet been issued, Bramhall said. The crash caused "significant damage" to the Honda and damaged the lawn and shrubs of 41 Orton Road, Bramhall said.

The accident remains under investigation by Officer Edward Bierals.