Bridgeton, NJ (September 16, 2025) – On Saturday night, September 13, police are searching for the driver involved in a fatal hit-and-run that claimed the life of a pedestrian in Cumberland County.
Officers responded to the area of East Broad Street and James D. Edwards Sr. Way shortly before 9:30 p.m. after receiving reports of someone lying on the shoulder of the roadway. Upon arrival, they discovered Pedro Chavez, 58, of Bridgeton, suffering from severe head and facial injuries. Sadly, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators determined that Chavez had been walking eastbound on the westbound shoulder of East Broad Street when he was struck by an unknown westbound vehicle. The vehicle is believed to have sustained damage to its front passenger side and windshield before fleeing the scene.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident and urge anyone with information to contact the Bridgeton Police Department at 856-451-0033.
Our sincere condolences to the family members during this difficult time.
Compensation in Traffic Accidents in New Jersey
Traffic accidents involving pedestrians
are among the most devastating, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
In New Jersey, surviving family members may pursue compensation through a wrongful death claim when a loved one is killed due to another party’s negligence, such as a hit-and-run driver.
Available compensation may include:
- Funeral and burial expenses: Coverage for immediate end-of-life costs.
- Medical expenses: Reimbursement for any emergency treatment provided before death.
- Loss of financial support: Compensation for wages, benefits, and contributions the victim would have provided to the household.
- Loss of services: The economic value of household tasks and care the deceased would have performed.
- Loss of companionship, guidance, and consortium: Recognition of the emotional and relational support that surviving spouses, children, and dependents have lost.
- Pain and suffering: Damages for the victim’s conscious pain and suffering before death, if applicable.
Because New Jersey follows a no-fault insurance system, victims’ medical expenses are typically covered initially by their own insurance policy. However, in serious injury or wrongful death cases, especially those involving reckless or unidentified drivers, families may pursue additional claims against the at-fault driver or through uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
Navigating wrongful death and hit-and-run claims is complex, requiring careful investigation, adherence to strict filing deadlines, and strong advocacy to ensure the family’s rights are fully protected. A brave wrongful death lawyer can help families understand their rights, ensure deadlines are met, and advocate for maximum compensation.
At Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq, we are committed to standing by families affected by fatal accidents across New Jersey. Call us today at (800) 923-3456 for a free consultation and let us help you seek the justice and financial recovery you deserve.
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.
Disclaimer: This content is not a business solicitation, and none of the information provided should be construed as legal or medical advice. Additionally, the featured image in this post is not from the actual accident scene.