Clifton, NJ (October 5, 2025) – A 20-year-old woman died on Saturday morning, October 4, after a hit-and-run crash on Route 21 north near the Exit 9 ramp to Route 3 west in Passaic County.
Authorities identified the victim as Kamaya Young, of Paterson. Investigators said that around 8:12 a.m., someone found Young unresponsive on the side of Route 21 and called for help. Emergency responders rushed to the scene and tried to save her, but she died shortly afterward.
Detectives found broken pieces of a vehicle scattered near the crash site, indicating that the driver fled after striking Young. Officials have not yet released details about the vehicle or the person responsible.
The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office and Clifton Police spent several hours at the scene collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses to learn how the deadly crash happened. The investigation is ongoing, and more updates will be released as they become available. Authorities urge anyone with information about the driver to come forward.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Kamaya Young during this heartbreaking time.
Fatal Pedestrian Accidents in New Jersey
Pedestrian crashes are among the deadliest traffic incidents in New Jersey. Busy roads, fast-moving vehicles, and distracted driving leave people on foot extremely vulnerable. When a driver flees the scene, the devastation for families becomes even greater.
State data shows New Jersey records hundreds of pedestrian deaths every year. Many happen on highways and busy thoroughfares, where speeding, distracted driving, poor lighting, and limited shoulders create dangerous conditions. Areas like Route 21, with high traffic speeds and sudden merging ramps, present an especially high risk for fatal collisions.
The injuries from these crashes are often catastrophic. Victims may suffer traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, massive internal bleeding, or multiple fractures. These injuries can be fatal at the scene or shortly after emergency care, leaving families to face sudden grief and unexpected financial strain.
Funeral costs, medical bills, and the loss of a loved one’s income can feel overwhelming in the middle of deep emotional pain. Filing a wrongful death claim may help ease the burden. A claim can recover the costs of funeral arrangements, medical treatment, lost income, and the emotional toll of losing someone so suddenly.
Filing a wrongful death claim while grieving can feel impossible to handle alone. A brave wrongful death lawyer can protect your rights and fight for the justice your loved one deserves.
At Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq, we understand the heartbreak of losing someone in a pedestrian crash. For decades, our attorneys have helped families across New Jersey hold negligent drivers accountable and pursue the financial recovery they need to move forward. We manage the legal process so you can focus on healing with your family.
If you lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident, call Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq today at (800) 923-3456 for a free, confidential consultation. We are here to guide you through this challenging time.
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.