Plainfield Man Charged In 2019 Hit-And-Run Of Boy In Watchung

WATCHUNG, NJ — A Plainfield man was charged in the hit-and-run of a 12-year-old boy in Watchung following a 15-month investigation, said Somerset County Prosecutor Michael H. Robertson.

On Oct. 8, 2019, at about 6:50 p.m., a 911 call reported a pedestrian was hit on Valley Road by a car that fled from the scene.

Police found the 12-year-old boy with serious bodily injuries. He was taken to a trauma center for emergency treatment and ended up surviving the crash, Robertson said.

A 15-month investigation into the hit-and-run identified a white 2013 Hyundai Sonata and Bryant D. Eggleston, 51, of Plainfield were involved in the crash, Robertson said.

Eggleston was arrested at his home in Plainfield this past Tuesday.

Eggleston was charged with third-degree assault by auto, third-degree endangering an injured victim, fourth-degree hindering apprehension, fourth-degree tampering with evidence and leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident.

Eggleston was taken to the Somerset County Jail pending a bail detention hearing.

Anyone with information relating to the hit-and-run investigation is asked to contact the Watchung Police Department at 908-756-3663. All calls will be kept confidential or via the STOPit app.

Information can also be provided through the Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477). All anonymous STOPit reports and Crime Stopper tips will be kept confidential.

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