Driver Fatally Strikes Man In Wheelchair Crossing Street In South Jersey: Police

MILLVILLE, NJ — A driver fatally struck an elderly man who traveled in a motorized wheelchair last week in South Jersey, authorities said. No charges have been filed as of Tuesday morning, but officers continue to review evidence, according to Millville Police Chief Ross Hoffman.

The collision occurred at around noon Wednesday at West Main Street and Riverside Drive, police said. Authorities identified Filippo DeCesare, 72, of Millville, as the decedent.

DeCesare was traveling east on West Main Street, within the crosswalk, when the driver of a Chevy Silverado made a left turn off the street onto Riverside Drive, police said. First responders treated DeCesare on-scene and then took him to Inspira Medical Center Vineland, where he died from his injuries, according to law enforcement.

The driver wasn't injured.

Anyone with information about the incident can contact Millville Police Sgt. William Stadnick at 856-825-7010 ext. 7323.

Born in Orsogna, Italy, DeCesare grew up in the Vineland area, according to his obituary. He previously worked for H&R Block and John Hancock while assisting with several family-owned businesses.

"Sundays, in the fall, you can find Filippo rooting for the Philadelphia Eagles and the rest of the year, all of the Philadelphia sports team," his obituary says. "He could talk on all conversations, with confidence. He was an ace in trivia, liked playing cards and cooking."

Fatal accidents around the state occurred more frequently in recent years. New Jersey averaged 569.3 fatalities per year from 2018-20 and 695.5 per year from 2021-22, according to state data. So far, the state has reported 144 fatalities from collisions this year — slightly down from New Jersey's death toll as of April 18 in 2021 (153) and last year (163).