By Crash News Writer 
Woodbridge, NJ (February 20, 2026) – A deadly early morning crash along Route 1 left one person dead and three others injured after authorities say the incident began as a police pursuit.
According to the New Jersey State Police the crash occurred just before 12:30 a.m. on February 20 in the southbound lanes of Route 1 near Gill Avenue. Officials reported that officers were pursuing a Nissan Maxima when it collided with another vehicle. The force of the impact caused catastrophic damage, leaving both vehicles heavily mangled across the roadway.
A 21 year old female passenger in the Nissan Maxima was pronounced dead at the scene. Three other individuals were transported to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick for treatment. Authorities also confirmed that a dog was found deceased inside the Nissan. The cause of the crash and circumstances surrounding the pursuit remain under investigation. Route 1 was closed for approximately 11 hours before reopening later Friday morning.
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This report is based on preliminary information released by authorities and may be updated as the investigation continues. Additional findings, including the reason for the police pursuit or any potential charges, may be disclosed at a later time.
The identities of those involved have not been officially released pending notification of next of kin.
Motorists seeking traffic updates related to Route 1 in Woodbridge should consult local law enforcement agencies or traffic monitoring services.
The content of this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. All information reflects public reports available at the time of publication and may change as the investigation progresses. Readers are encouraged to seek legal counsel if they or someone they know have been involved in a similar incident. The publisher assumes no liability for actions taken or not taken based on the information provided in this article. Learn more by visiting our disclaimer.
If your family has been impacted by this tragic crash, call an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and explore your legal options.