ATLANTIC COUNTY, NEW JERSEY — Authorities have confirmed the identity of a woman who was killed in a hit-and-run accident on the Black Horse Pike on Tuesday evening. Police say the incident occurred around 8:00 p.m. when the victim, 40-year-old Alisha Cottman of Atlantic City, was struck by a vehicle while walking along the busy highway.
The hit-and-run crash left police officers and investigators at the scene for several hours as they worked to gather evidence. Witnesses describe seeing flashing lights and a heavy police presence near the scene, with many expressing concern about the dangerous nature of the road for pedestrians.
Investigation and Search for the Driver
Following the crash, police confirmed that the driver responsible for hitting Cottman fled the scene without stopping to help. The search for the driver continued through the night. Later, authorities managed to locate the suspect vehicle, a 2018 Jeep Wrangler, and the driver in Philadelphia.
The police have not yet revealed the identity of the driver, but they are continuing their investigation into the circumstances of the crash. Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident to come forward and assist with the ongoing inquiry.
Nearby Residents React to the Incident
Local residents living near the crash site described their shock at the fatal accident. Charles Swisher, who lives in a condo close to the scene, reported seeing numerous emergency vehicles and a body lying on the road after he looked out his window.
“I just looked outside my window, and I saw a bunch of lights,” Swisher recalled. “I looked across the street and saw a lot of cops and a body.”
Giuseppa Hermann, another nearby resident, mentioned how the investigation lasted for hours, as police worked to find pieces of the car involved in the crash. “They were looking forever for pieces of the car,” she said.
Concerns Over the Road’s Safety
The Black Horse Pike has been known for its high-speed traffic and dangerous conditions for pedestrians. This isn’t the first time a hit-and-run crash has occurred along this stretch of road. Back in November 2023, a 65-year-old man was struck and killed by a driver who also fled the scene.
Neighbors expressed their concern about the safety of the road, especially for those on foot. “Everybody drives fast here,” Hermann noted, highlighting the need for improved safety measures.
Charles Swisher suggested that the area could benefit from additional lighting or traffic cameras to help prevent further incidents. “They should get some lights on the Black Horse Pike, at least around here, or cameras, or something,” Swisher said.
Call for Witnesses
As of now, police are still looking for more witnesses to the hit-and-run crash. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident or the suspect vehicle to contact the Egg Harbor Township Police Department.
Previous Accidents and Calls for Action
The Black Horse Pike, known for its busy lanes and fast-moving traffic, has seen several accidents in the past. Local residents believe the road could benefit from improved traffic control and safety measures to reduce the risk of accidents, especially for pedestrians. The call for action is becoming louder, as more and more people are calling for change to make the area safer for everyone.
What Authorities Are Doing
Egg Harbor Township police have increased patrols in the area, and officials are working on long-term solutions to improve safety along the Black Horse Pike. They are also considering installing more traffic lights or pedestrian crossings in the area. Residents are hopeful that these efforts will help prevent future tragedies on the road.
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