Deer Crashes Front Car Windshield, Lands In Backseat In Howell

A deer crashed through the front windshield of a car operated by a 36-year-old New Jersey woman on Monday, landing in the backseat, police said.

Howell resident Melissa Misthal was operating a 2004 Toyota RAV4 on Route 9 southbound near Bergerville Road when the deer crashed though her front windshield, police said.

The deer ran into the lanes of travel, police said. Misthal attempted to avoid the deer, but then struck the the animal as it was "airborne," police said.

The force of the impact propelled the deer into the passenger compartment, collapsing the front windshield and roof of the vehicle. The deer came to rest on the rear floor, police said. The deer was dead.

Misthal was injured and did not know the deer was still alive, but police said she had the composure to bring her vehicle to a safe stop in the shoulder of the roadway, police said.

The womanwas treated at the scene for her injuries.

"We praise the actions of Melissa," police said. "This had the potential of being deadly not only for her but for other motorists as well. She did everything right. Would you have done the same? Be an alert and prepared motorist!"

Howell police photos