Authorities have confirmed the identity of a tow truck driver who tragically lost his life in an incident on Route 19 early Sunday morning. The victim, 64-year-old Manuel Perez, a resident of Paterson, was loading a disabled vehicle onto his tow truck when the accident occurred near the Valley Road exit around 11 a.m.
According to Rob Rowan, spokesperson for the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office, Perez was actively assisting the stranded vehicle when he was struck by another driver. The force of the impact was so severe that the vehicle involved in the collision flipped over. The driver of the other vehicle sustained multiple injuries and was transported to St. Joseph’s University Medical Center for treatment.
Despite swift emergency response efforts, Perez was pronounced dead at the scene, prompting an outpouring of grief from the community. Friends and colleagues remember him as a dedicated professional who was committed to helping others in times of need.
In light of this tragic event, the Paterson Police Department’s Traffic Unit has initiated an investigation to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the crash. Investigators will examine various factors, including the actions of both drivers, road conditions at the time of the incident, and any potential traffic violations that may have contributed to the collision.
The investigation will be crucial in understanding how this tragic event unfolded and whether measures can be implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future. Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant information to come forward and assist in the investigation.
As the community mourns the loss of Manuel Perez, many are also reminded of the dangers faced by tow truck drivers and other roadside assistance personnel who work to ensure the safety of motorists. This incident highlights the importance of caution when driving near emergency responders and disabled vehicles on the road.
