No Criminal Charges Will Be Filed In Terry DiFalco's Death

WESTFIELD, NJ — No criminal charges will be filed against an N.J. State Police Trooper who tragically hit and killed Westfield's teenager Terry DiFalco, acting Union County Prosecutor Grace H. Park and Westfield Police Chief David Wayman said in a joint statement Wednesday.

A review of the circumstances surrounding the incident on Central Avenue in Westfield on March 4 did not reveal a basis for criminal charges, according to the joint statement.

The determination was made as a result of an investigation involving the Prosecutor’s Office and Westfield Police Department, assisted by the Union County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Unit and Union County Police Department.

DiFalco, 14, was struck and killed on March 4 by a service vehicle driven by an off-duty New Jersey State Police Trooper, Union County Prosecutor's Office said.

• See Related: Tragic Details Released: Girl, 13, Struck, Killed By Off-Duty N.J. State Trooper ID'd

“This was a tragic accident, and we want to extend our deepest sympathies to the friends and family of the deceased,” Park said.

“No investigation involving loss of life is ever routine, but this particular investigation, involving the loss of a beloved 14-year- old, was particularly difficult for our police officers – parents themselves who put forth every possible effort in making sure that all relevant information was reviewed,” Wayman added. “This was a very tragic accident that touched everyone in the Westfield community in some way, and though the investigation has been completed, we know the grieving has not. I speak for all Westfield Police Officers – especially those who were at the accident scene and those conducting the investigation – when I say that our deepest condolences remain with the family.”

Since the death a prayer service was held in her memory.

The family has also asked for respect during their grieving time.

(Image: Terry DiFalco)

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.

Get Patch breaking news alerts sent right to your phone with our new app. Download here.