Raritan Twp, NJ (September 17, 2025) – A serious crash occurred in Raritan Township on Monday afternoon, September 15, following a violent carjacking that began in Milford Borough and ended in a collision with injuries on County Route 579.
According to the Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Office, 26-year-old Jarrett Burd of Hampton stole a 2022 Toyota 4Runner at knifepoint from a Citgo gas station on Frenchtown Road in Milford. State police responded to the scene shortly after 3:20 p.m., and multiple agencies pursued the stolen vehicle as Burd drove erratically through Frenchtown and into Kingwood Township.
The chase came to a dangerous end around 4:26 p.m., when Burd crashed into another vehicle on County Route 579 in Raritan Township. Emergency medical services responded to the scene, and the driver of the second vehicle was transported to Hunterdon Medical Center for treatment. Burd was also evaluated after the crash.
Burd faces a series of charges, including first-degree carjacking, second-degree eluding, third-degree motor vehicle theft, aggravated assault of emergency medical services personnel, and assault by auto. He was taken into custody and is currently being held at Warren County Jail pending a detention hearing scheduled for September 19.
Our thoughts are with those affected by this accident.
Reckless Driving Accidents in New Jersey
Reckless driving remains one of the
leading causes of serious traffic accidents across New Jersey.
Unlike simple negligence, reckless driving involves a conscious disregard for the safety of others, such as excessive speeding, weaving through traffic, running red lights, or attempting to evade police. These dangerous actions significantly increase the likelihood of collisions that result in severe or even life-threatening injuries for innocent drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.
Victims of reckless driving accidents often face devastating consequences. Common injuries include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, multiple fractures, and internal organ trauma, many of which require long-term medical treatment and rehabilitation. Beyond the physical toll, injured individuals may also endure lasting emotional distress and financial hardship due to mounting medical expenses, lost income, and diminished quality of life. Families of victims may also suffer greatly when their loved ones are left permanently disabled or unable to return to work.
In New Jersey, reckless driving is considered a serious traffic offense and may carry criminal penalties, especially when it leads to a crash involving injuries. However, criminal charges alone do not provide financial relief to victims. Those harmed in reckless driving accidents may pursue a civil claim to recover compensation for medical bills, ongoing care needs, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and other related losses.
Due to the complexities involved, particularly when criminal proceedings overlap with civil cases, it is essential to work with a trustworthy New Jersey car accident lawyer. Legal guidance ensures victims’ rights are protected and maximizes the chances of securing fair compensation.
At Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq, we’ve been advocating for injured car accident victims across New Jersey for years. Our team is committed to delivering compassionate support and strong legal representation, so you can focus on recovery while we fight for justice on your behalf.
Call us today at (800) 923-3456 for your free and confidential consultation. We’re ready to stand by your side every step of the way.
Notes: Our accident news pieces utilize secondary sources like police and fire accident reports, news articles, and eyewitness testimonies. We have not independently verified this information at Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq. If you find inaccuracies, please contact us for correction. To request post-removal, please inform us, and we will promptly comply.
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