Investigation launched into car crash that left 6 people dead in Newark

Three of the victims were identified over the weekend by family members, and on Monday, investigators continued to work to officially identify all six passengers.

Naomi Yané

Dec 10, 2024, 3:15 AM

Updated 15 days ago

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An investigation into what caused a single-car crash that left six people dead in Newark Friday night is underway.
Three of the victims were identified over the weekend by family members, and on Monday, investigators continued to work to officially identify all six passengers.
In Jersey City, tributes continue to pour in on social media for the beloved Hudson Catholic football coaches who died, including Instagram tributes from the Hudson Catholic Girls Basketball program.
Essex County prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II says the car was on the on ramp to southbound routes 1 and 9 off of Raymond Boulevard when it veered off the road and became airborne. He said it then hit a support column for the Pulaski Skyway and landed underneath routes 1 and 9 and burst into flames.
"With regard to making official identification from this office, no official identifications have yet come forth from this office because of the process we have go through to make positive identifications," added Stephens.
Brad Cunningham, and brothers Lamar and Darryl McKnight were the passengers identified over the weekend by family members.
The prosecutor said they’ve been in contact with the families of people they believe were the occupants of the four-door sedan and they’re asking for more information, like dental records, to make positive identification.
Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop sent messages of condolence to the families of those involved.
In a statement, he said in part: “On behalf of our city, I extend my deepest condolences to their families, friends, and the entire Hudson Catholic community as we navigate this devastating loss together. We stand united in offering support during this difficult time."
Hudson Catholic Regional High School was closed on Monday. There's no word yet on whether the school would be closed on Tuesday.