Hit-And-Run Crash On Rt. 22 Hospitalizes Mountainside Pedestrian

MOUNTAINSIDE, NJ — A hit-and-run driver struck a Mountainside pedestrian and left the scene without seeking help, police report.

The pedestrian was walking along Route 22 East near the intersection of Globe Avenue when he was hit by a 2003 Jeep on Saturday at around 1:09 a.m., Mountainside Police Lt. Joseph Giannuzzi said.

The driver of the Jeep continued on without stopping to render aid, Giannuzzi said.

Shortly afterwards, a passing motorist saw what he thought was person laying in the roadway and stopped and called 911, Giannuzzi said.

The severely injured pedestrian was transported to University Hospital in Newark by Mountainside Rescue Squad.

The reported Jeep was found within hours and the driver Janae Hemmings, 24, of Plainfield was arrested, following an investigation by Mountainside Police.

Hemmings was charged with fourth-degree assault by auto and third-degree leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident and also various motor vehicle summonses.

The victim remains in critical condition at the hospital. He has also undergone several emergency operations.

Mountainside Police Officer Stephen King and Corporal Don Amberg responded to the initial call and follow up investigation was conducted by Det. Corporal Shaun Bendik and Sgt. Michael Jackson.

This is the second crash involving a pedestrian on Route 22 this week. (See Related: Pedestrian Hit By Car On Route 22 Dies)

(Image via Google Maps)

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