Crime & Safety
Man Arrested In Fatal Hit-And-Run Crash That Killed Teaneck Woman
A Florida man has been arrested in connection to a fatal hit-and-run that killed 21-year-old Jada Smith of Teaneck.
FORT LEE, NJ — A Florida man has been arrested in connection with a June 4 fatal hit-and-run that killed a 21-year-old Teaneck woman, according to state police.
Joel Lasanta, 37, of Kissimmee, Florida, was arrested on June 6 at the Clara Barton Service Area on the New Jersey Turnpike. He is charged with leaving the scene of an accident with fatal injuries and hindering apprehension.
State police say he was lodged in Bergen County Jail while awaiting a detention hearing.
Find out what's happening in Teaneckfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
New Jersey State Police officials say Smith was traveling southbound on the New Jersey Turnpike near Fort Lee when she was involved in a crash, and her vehicle became disabled. She then exited her vehicle, and was struck by a tractor trailer.
Troopers responded at 10:25 p.m. to the accident, where they pronounced Smith dead at the scene.
Find out what's happening in Teaneckfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.