NJ Teen Driver Dead, 3 Injured After Car Strikes Pole: Police

RUTHERFORD, NJ - A Bergen County teen driver died after a vehicle struck a telephone pole and caught fire on Friday, authorities said.

The driver of the vehicle, transporting three other juvenile males, was pronounced dead at the scene. The others were transported to a local hospital with “serious” injuries, Rutherford Police Chief John Russo told Patch. All occupants including the driver are 17 years old, Russo said.

The vehicle, a two-door BMW Sedan, was traveling westbound on Marginal Road between Lincoln Avenue and Wheaton Place at 3 p.m. when it struck the pole and ignited, Russo said.

Rutherford Fire Department spent over two hours attempting to extricate a trapped occupant, Russo said.

“It had just started to rain in the area. No other vehicles were involved and as of this time, it appears to be just a tragic accident,” the police chief said.

Four ambulances and additional police units from neighboring towns also assisted with the scene. Power in and around Marginal Road between Ridge Road and Park Avenue was shut down due to the crash.

“Our heartfelt condolences go out to those involved in today’s tragic accident. We pray for those grieving and recovering, and thank all the agencies who assisted throughout,” Rutherford Volunteer First-Aid Ambulance Corps. said in a statement Friday night. “Take a moment to hug your kids tonight, as life is so fragile.”

Rutherford Mayor Frank Nunziato also offered his condolences in a statement issued Friday on behalf of the borough council.

“I personally request that we come together as one community to respect the privacy of these families and offer them the support they need today, tomorrow and in the future during this sad and tragic time,” Nunziato said.

The Bergen County Prosecutor's Office is currently assisting in the investigation.