2 Cops Hurt, Hospitalized In Newark Car Crashes Wednesday

NEWARK, NJ — A vehicle hit two Newark police officers on Wednesday morning as they investigated a car crash, authorities said.

According to a Newark police spokesperson, the officers responded to a two-car crash at 6:05 a.m. on Routes 1 & 9 South. A third car hit the officers as they were outside their police vehicle, which was also struck.

The officers were taken to University Hospital for treatment. Both sustained “significant injuries,” but are reportedly in stable condition, authorities said.

Newark Public Safety Director Brian O’Hara said he is extremely grateful that the officers are expected to recover from their injuries.

“Newark police officers consistently face unpredictable dangers in service to those who live, work and visit Newark,” O’Hara said.

Authorities continue to investigate the crash. No further information was immediately available, including if the weather played a role, a police spokesperson said.

However, car crashes have been reported across New Jersey on Wednesday due to snowy, icy road conditions. Read More: More Snow Headed To NJ (See Latest Forecast)

On Wednesday morning, the National Weather Service issued a winter weather advisory statewide as freezing rain fell on slippery sidewalks, roads and bridges.

“Temperatures are warming across the area,” the weather service said. “There may still be lingering ice patches over untreated surfaces. Travel with caution the rest of the morning.”

In Newark, an early morning crash was reported on I-280 eastbound at exit 13, according to 511nj.org.

Another crash – with injuries – was reported at I-78 near exit 56.

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