RIO GRANDE – A Wildwood Crest resident faces multiple charges after allegedly striking a pedestrian with his vehicle while driving under the influence.
Middle Township Police Department reported that at approximately 1:51 a.m., Aug. 26, it responded to the intersection of Route 47 and 5th Street in Rio Grande, in the area of ShopRite, for a motor vehicle accident involving a pedestrian.
Upon arrival, officers learned the driver of the vehicle had left the scene. The victim, a 48-year-old West Wildwood woman, was transported to AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center, City Campus, for her injuries and is listed as critical but stable.
A description of the vehicle, a silver Nissan Altima, was developed through witness statements and the vehicle was later located by the Lower Township Police Department.
The driver, identified as Elijah Bethel, 21, was arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI), assault by auto, and knowingly leaving a motor vehicle accident with serious bodily injury. He was issued several motor vehicle summonses.
The crash was investigated by the Middle Township Crash Team, Middle Township Major Crimes Unit, and Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office. Also assisting with the investigation were the Cape May County Sheriff’s Department, New Jersey State Police, Rio Grande Fire Company, and Green Creek Fire Company.
Due to the investigation, Route 47 was closed for approximately three hours.
