A 35-year-old man was killed Sunday night, August 11, 2024, while attempting to cross Route 1 and 9 on his bicycle in Elizabeth, N.J., near North Avenue. The accident, which occurred around 10:30 p.m., once again highlighted this notorious intersection’s dangers.

Witnesses reported that the victim, who remains unidentified, was struck by a car driven by a 20-year-old who was allegedly trying to beat a red light. The vehicle was speeding when it struck the man, causing such severe impact that the bicycle was split in two, and the victim was decapitated.

According to Shonta Smith, a resident who witnessed the crash, the noise from the collision was even more intense than that of a typical car crash. She noted that the traffic light was yellow, and by the time the driver crossed the white traffic stop line, it had already turned red. She immediately knew the victim was in trouble.

Smith, who knew the victim, described him as kind and generous, regardless of his situation. She mentioned that he had a sweet nature and, despite being homeless, was always willing to help anyone in need. She added that he was both smart and funny, and he was the type of person who was always willing to give.

The driver remained at the scene following the collision and has not been charged as of yet. The Union County Prosecutor’s Office is currently investigating the incident.

Route 1 and 9 in Elizabeth is known for its hazardous conditions, particularly for pedestrians. The intersection has been the site of multiple fatalities, including those at East Jersey Street and East Grand Street. In 2020 alone, 161 crashes were reported in the area, with three resulting in deaths. In March, a pedestrian was fatally struck near this intersection. In December 2023, two taxi passengers were killed in a crash at East Grand Street when a driver ran a red light and slammed into the taxi not far from the Route 1 & 9 intersection. 

Local residents, such as Brett Graves, who frequently cross Route 1 and 9, are acutely aware of the intersection’s dangers. Graves observes that pedestrians are given a full minute to cross before the traffic light changes. Despite this, the intersection remains hazardous due to drivers’ impatience. Another resident, Rony Concepcion, points out that timing is crucial because impatient drivers often become aggressive when the light turns yellow, honking their horns at those who hesitate.

As the investigation continues, the community is reminded of pedestrians’ ongoing dangers at this and other intersections along Route 1 and 9.