Leonia, NJ – Drivers on the New Jersey Turnpike in Bergen County faced chaos late Thursday night after a minor collision escalated into a shooting that state police are now investigating.
According to the New Jersey State Police, the incident occurred around 11:41 p.m. on Thursday, September 11, near milepost 121.2 northbound in Leonia. Troopers from Troop “D” Newark Station responded to reports of a motor vehicle crash and aggravated assault involving gunfire.
A preliminary investigation found that a white Acura TL with New York plates was rear-ended by another vehicle while traffic was at a standstill. Police said two male suspects exited the striking vehicle and allegedly began assaulting the two Hispanic men inside the Acura. One suspect reportedly fired at least one round toward the vehicle before both men fled north on the Turnpike.
No troopers were on scene at the time of the assault, and the suspects remain at large. Authorities have not released further descriptions of the unknown vehicle involved.
Investigators are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash, the assault, or the suspects fleeing the area to contact the NJSP Troop “D” Newark Station Criminal Investigation Office at 732-441-4500 ext. 1401.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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