Newark, NJ – Passenger Killed, Driver Seriously Injured in Crash on I-78 Exit Ramp

Newark, NJ (November 16, 2025) – A deadly crash on Sunday, November 16, left one man dead and another seriously injured after a vehicle hit a concrete barrier on an Interstate 78 exit ramp in Newark.

The New Jersey State Police reported that a 26-year-old man from Elizabeth was driving eastbound around 2:15 a.m. when he entered the Exit 57 ramp. While navigating the curve, he lost control, veered off the roadway, and slammed into the end of a concrete barrier.

The collision caused catastrophic damage. The front-seat passenger, identified as 28-year-old Anthony D. Thomas of Plainfield, suffered fatal injuries on impact. Emergency responders arrived within minutes. Despite their efforts, he died at the scene. Medics rushed the driver to a nearby hospital with severe injuries.

Police shut down the ramp for several hours as troopers investigated the crash and cleared debris from the scene. Authorities continue to examine what caused the driver to lose control. The investigation remains ongoing.

Our hearts go out to the family and friends of Anthony Thomas during this challenging time.

Fatal Car Accidents in New Jersey

Passenger Killed, Driver Seriously Injured in Crash on I-78 Exit RampFatal car accidents remain a serious issue across New Jersey. Interstates such as I-78, I-80, and the Garden State Parkway see hundreds of deadly crashes each year. Heavy traffic, high speeds, and constant congestion make these routes especially dangerous.

The most common causes of fatal crashes include speeding, distracted driving, and impaired driving. Drivers often lose focus while using their phones or drive drowsy after long hours behind the wheel. Others take curves too fast or fail to slow down on ramps, causing violent rollovers or collisions with barriers.

These tragedies leave families facing sudden heartbreak and financial strain. Along with grief, loved ones must deal with mounting medical bills, funeral costs, and the loss of income or companionship. The aftermath can feel overwhelming, but families have legal rights under New Jersey’s wrongful death laws.

Compensation may be available for:

  • Medical and funeral expenses
  • Lost wages and future income
  • Pain, suffering, and loss of companionship

Insurance companies often push for quick, low settlements that fail to cover the true cost of loss. A trusted wrongful death lawyer in Newark can investigate the crash, gather evidence, and fight for the justice and compensation your family deserves.

At Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq, we’ve spent decades standing up for victims and families across New Jersey. Our compassionate legal team understands what you’re going through and will fight to secure the maximum compensation possible.

If you lost a loved one in a fatal crash, call Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq at (800) 923-3456 today for a free consultation. We’re here to guide you through this difficult 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.

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