Pole Hit, Driver Cited

This report is based on information received from law enforcement.
ERMA – Lower Township Police Department was notified April 17, at approximately 7:52 a.m., of a motor vehicle crash that had just occurred in the area of Routes 9 and 109 in Erma. A multi-agency response was activated with assistance from Erma Fire Department and Lower Township Rescue Squad. 
According to a release, upon arrival to the crash scene, Lower Township police made contact with one vehicle. A blue Pontiac G6 was observed in the roadway with heavy front-end damage, airbag deployment, and the driver still inside.
The driver, later identified as Diego Pelaz, of Villas, was able to free himself from the vehicle and was escorted to the side of the roadway where he was evaluated by Lower Township Rescue Squad. He ultimately declined to be transported to the hospital for any further assessment.
Crash investigation determined the vehicle was traveling north on Route 9 when it ran off the right side of the road, struck a curb, and then struck and split a utility pole before re-entering the roadway and coming to a final rest facing south. The vehicle was towed from the scene after being deemed safe to do so by fire personnel.
Atlantic City Electric was contacted and responded to the crash scene to evaluate the damage to their utility pole.
Pelaz was issued one motor vehicle summons for careless driving.
The crash was investigated by Patrolmen Anthony Micciche and Kenneth Walker, with assistance from Patrolwoman Jennifer Anzelone and Special Officer Michael Harkin.
The individual(s) listed is/are presumed innocent until proven guilty.