Driver Who Hit Jersey Shore Fire Chief Told Police He Was Drinking: Report

MANCHESTER, NJ — Funeral services have been set for Brian Flanagan, the Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Company chief who was killed early Tuesday in a hit-and-run on the New Jersey Turnpike.

Flanagan, 47, suffered fatal injuries when a GMC SUV drove into a construction zone at milepost 87.7 on the outer roadway southbound on the turnpike in Edison at 3:52 a.m. Tuesday, Trooper Charles Marchan said.

Anthony Bernardi, 40, of Edison, drove into the zone, which was marked and had two lanes closed, Marchan said. He took off after the crash but was arrested and charged with first-degree aggravated manslaughter, second-degree vehicular homicide, and second-degree leaving the scene of an accident with fatal injuries, Marchan said.

During his arrest, Bernardi admitted to drinking before the crash, the Asbury Park Press reported. He showed signs of impairment, "such as slurred speech, bloodshot watery eyes, and the odor of a consumed alcoholic beverage emanating from his breath," the report said, quoting a police affidavit.

Bernardi remains in the Middlesex County jail as of Thursday afternoon.

Tributes have continued to pour in for Flanagan from fire companies and first responders throughout Ocean County and beyond.

Funeral services have been set for Monday, with the viewing 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Oliverie Funeral Home, 2925 Ridgeway Road, Manchester.

A Firefighters Service is set for 7 p.m.

"Throughout his years of service, Brian held multiple roles and dedicated much of his life to serving others," Manchester Police Chief Antonio Ellis said. "He was a true public servant whose commitment to his community and passion for helping those in need left a lasting impact on Manchester Township and beyond."

"Many of our police officers and emergency services personnel had the privilege of working alongside Brian for years, responding to emergencies and serving our community together," Ellis wrote. "His dedication, professionalism, and friendship will be remembered by those who had the honor of working with him."

"We are grateful for Brian's many years of dedicated service and the difference he made in the lives of so many," Ellis wrote.