A hit-and-run crash that killed a Brick Township teen Tuesday has spread waves of shock and grief through the community.
The fatal crash took place Tuesday at about 6:50 a.m. in the area of Lanes Mill Road and Rhode Island Avenue, according to Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer. The prosecutor said the victim was riding a bicycle and was struck by a vehicle that fled the scene. The bicyclist, a student in the Brick Township School District, was pronounced dead at the scene.
"This morning there was an accident that resulted in a tragedy for Brick Schools. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the student," Superintendent of Schools Thomas Farrell said in a statement Tuesday.
Following the crash, local and county investigators learned that the suspect was driving a 2021 BMW at a high rate of speed when the car struck the student on the bike.
"Following the crash, the operator of the BMW failed to stop, render aid, or notify law enforcement. Continuing investigation revealed that a juvenile was operating the motor vehicle at the time of the crash," Billhimer said.
The juvenile was taken into custody and is being held at the Ocean County Juvenile Detention Center.
"Brick Schools has grief counseling and support services available for all students and staff," Farrell said. "This is an incredibly sad and tragic event for our community, and we need to support one another during this difficult time."