WOODLAND PARK, NJ — The community is grieving the loss of 14-year-old Nicola Colangelo, who died on Monday afternoon after his bicycle collided with an SUV in Woodland Park. The tragic incident has left family, friends, and neighbors heartbroken as they remember a young life full of promise and joy.
Colangelo, a lifelong resident of Woodland Park and a freshman at Passaic Valley Regional High School, was known for his vibrant personality, sense of humor, and kindness. He was an active participant in summer camps and played travel basketball and football, earning the admiration of his peers and coaches.
According to authorities, the accident occurred when Colangelo was navigating between traffic and crashed into the rear passenger door of a 2023 Mercedes-Benz SUV. Emergency responders arrived quickly but pronounced him dead at the scene. The driver of the SUV remained on-site and cooperated with investigators. No charges have been filed at this time, but an investigation is ongoing to determine the exact circumstances of the crash. Officials are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the Prosecutor’s Office tips line at 1-877-370-PCPO or email tips@passaiccountynj.org.
Colangelo was the eldest of three siblings, and his family is devastated by the sudden loss. Local leaders, including Mayor Tracy Kallert and the borough council, expressed their deepest condolences to the Colangelo family and friends. In a statement, they vowed to honor Nicola’s memory by cherishing the joy and positivity he brought to everyone around him.
Passaic Valley Regional Superintendent Dr. Bracken Healy announced that crisis management resources would be available to students and staff throughout Tuesday to help them cope with the tragedy. “We are deeply saddened by this loss and are committed to providing the necessary emotional and mental health support for our students,” he stated in a letter to the community.
The loss of Nicola Colangelo has left a profound void in the Woodland Park community. Friends and classmates are remembering him as a bright, energetic, and compassionate young man who touched the lives of many.
As the investigation continues, the community is coming together to support the Colangelo family during this unimaginably difficult time. The tragic accident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for vigilance to protect the lives of all community members, especially young ones.
Nicola’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, and his legacy of kindness and joy will continue to inspire others.
