Woman Killed Fleeing Police, Child Hurt on Rte 55 in Mantua Twp, NJ

Mantua Township, NJ (July 22, 2026) – A 5-year-old child was hurt, and a 41-year-old woman died, after she fled from police and crashed into a tree along southbound Route 55 early Monday morning, July 20.

The Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office said the woman had been riding in the backseat of the vehicle when police stopped the driver for a traffic offense near mile marker 50 shortly before midnight Sunday. As the driver stood outside the car, police told the woman to get out as well, but she instead climbed into the front seat, took control of the vehicle, and drove off.

Police were unable to locate the woman right away and brought the original driver back to the police station. Officials said state police later informed local officers that the vehicle had left the roadway and struck a tree about three miles from where the stop occurred.

The child, whose relationship to the others in the vehicle has not been released, was wounded, though the injuries were described as not life-threatening. The driver's identity and the reason for the traffic stop were not released.

The investigation into the events leading up to her death remains ongoing. 

Our thoughts are with the child and the family during this difficult time.

What Legal Rights Does an Injured Child Have After a Crash in Mantua Township, NJ?

An injured child in New Jersey has the right to pursue compensation for medical care, pain, and long-term effects of their injuries, and state law generally pauses the filing deadline for that claim until the child turns 18. 

Children who are hurt in a crash can face unique challenges compared to adults, including developmental effects, extended pediatric treatment, and emotional trauma that may not fully surface for months.

Because a child cannot manage medical bills or legal paperwork, a parent or guardian typically has to step in to handle those responsibilities while also caring for the child's recovery.

Any settlement that involves a minor in New Jersey usually requires court approval, and the funds are often held in a supervised account until the child turns 18 to make sure the money is protected. 

Because a young child can't manage medical bills, negotiations, or the paperwork that comes with a claim, a parent or guardian typically has to take that on, usually with the help of a car accident lawyer who can guide the family through petitioning for a guardian ad litem when necessary and make sure medical expenses and future needs are properly accounted for in any resolution. 

When a child is injured in a crash, it calls for extra care in how a claim is built and presented to the court. At Metro Law, we can walk your family through what New Jersey law requires when a minor is involved. 

Our team is available to review your case and help you understand your options. You can reach Metro Law at (800) 469-6476 to talk about your case and learn more.