EMT’s tend to the pedestrian struck by a red Nissan Xterra while police speak to the driver, who remained on the scene. (Photo courtesy of Sue Viscomi. Click to enlarge.)
By BRIAN DONOHUE
A 56-year-old woman who had just left Lunch Break was struck by an SUV as she crossed Drs. James Parker Boulevard Thursday afternoon, police and witnesses said.
The pedestrian, a resident of Neptune, was taken to Jersey Shore Medical Center after sustaining a head injury, Red Bank Police Chief Mike Frazee said in an emailed statement. Her condition was not immediately available.
Gwendolyn Love, Executive Director of Lunch Break, the social service provider said she appeared to be conscious and speaking as EMT’s tended to her at the scene. Love said the victim had just left Lunch Break.
Frazee said police were called to the intersection of South Bridge Avenue and Drs. James Parker at 12:07 pm. Police believe the victim was in the crosswalk when she was struck by a 60-year-old female driver from Long Branch turning left off South Bridge Avenue onto Drs. James Parker in a red Nissan Xterra. 
The driver was transported to Monmouth Medical Center with a complaint of pain in her neck and right shoulder, Frazee said, adding The incident is currently under investigation by Ptl. Piero Vescio of the departments Traffic Safety Unit.
The incident appears to be the first pedestrian strike of the year, with the most recent on December 13.
Red Bank saw 15 accidents (including one fatality) involving pedestrians in 2024, up from ten in 2023, according to statistics provided by Police Chief Mike Frazee in December. Both years saw eight accidents involving cyclists.
The total number of vehicle crashes in 2024 was 745 – a slight reduction from 774 the previous year, he said.
In 2024, New Jersey hit a tragic 30-year high for pedestrian deaths, with 222 people killed by car and truck drivers, or 30 percent more than the previous year. Overall traffic deaths were up 14 percent over the previous year.
redbankgreen editor Brian Donohue may be reached via email at [email protected] or by calling or texting 848-331-8331 or yelling his name loudly as he walks by. Do you value the news coverage provided by redbankgreen? Please become a financial supporter if you haven’t already. Click here to set your own level of monthly or annual contribution.
