A fatal multi-vehicle crash on Route 17 in Hasbrouck Heights claimed the life of a truck driver on Thursday evening, Bergen County prosecutors confirmed on Friday. The victim, identified as Edwin B. Coreas of Bogota, New Jersey, was driving an Isuzu box truck when the collision occurred just before 6:30 p.m. on the southbound lanes of Route 17 near Franklin Avenue. Authorities reported that the accident involved four vehicles in total.
Coreas was pronounced dead at the scene, while multiple individuals from the other vehicles sustained injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Officials described the severity of the injuries as varying but did not disclose further details. The crash began when Coreas’ truck collided with another vehicle, triggering a chain reaction that led to two additional cars becoming involved.
Investigators shut down the southbound lanes of Route 17 for several hours as they examined the scene. Authorities stated that criminal charges are not anticipated at this time. However, the Hasbrouck Heights Police Department, with assistance from the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Fatal Accident Investigation Unit, is continuing to investigate the incident.
The tragic loss of Edwin B. Coreas has left the Bogota and Hasbrouck Heights communities in mourning. Friends and family are remembering him as a dedicated truck driver and a beloved member of the community.
Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of Edwin B. Coreas during this incredibly difficult time. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses. This tragic event underscores the importance of road safety and vigilance while driving, especially on busy highways.
