Hamilton Township, NJ (April 27, 2026) – A van passenger died after the vehicle crashed into a disabled Mack truck parked on the shoulder of I-295 in Hamilton Township, Mercer County. The crash happened on Friday afternoon, April 24.
New Jersey State Police identified the passenger as 25-year-old Daniel Carmelo. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The van’s driver sustained minor injuries in the collision.
According to authorities, the van struck the Mack truck, which was stopped on the shoulder of the highway at the time of the crash. Police have not released further details about what caused the driver to hit the parked vehicle.
Authorities are still investigating the cause of the accident.
We extend our sincere condolences to the family of Daniel Carmelo and to all those who knew him.
How Long Do Families Have to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, families generally have two years from the date of their loved one’s death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Missing this deadline can prevent a family from pursuing a claim entirely, which makes it important to seek legal guidance as early as possible after a fatal crash.
When a passenger dies in a vehicle accident, their family may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim. Passengers are not responsible for controlling the vehicle, which means they — or their surviving family members — may seek compensation related to the circumstances that caused the crash. Potentially liable parties could include the van’s driver, the owner of the disabled truck, or other parties whose actions contributed to the accident.
Wrongful death claims in New Jersey can cover a range of losses. These may include funeral and burial expenses, the income the deceased would have earned over their lifetime, and the loss of companionship that family members experience. Each case carries its own set of facts, and an attorney can help a family understand what may apply to their specific situation.
Surviving family members often have questions about how to move forward after losing someone in a fatal crash. A wrongful death lawyer can review police reports, witness statements, and other available evidence to help identify what legal options may exist. Acting early helps preserve key evidence and allows more time to build a thorough case.
At Metro Law, we have years of experience reviewing fatal accident cases in New Jersey and can explain what options may be available to families after a wrongful death crash.
Contact Metro Law at (800) 469-6476 to speak with our team and learn more about the steps that may be available to your family.
