By Crash News Writer 
Lakehurst, NJ (September 11, 2026) – Two drivers suffered minor injuries Thursday morning after a Manchester Township Schools bus struck a Ford pickup truck before leaving the roadway and crashing into a home near Lilac Street and Union Avenue.
According to the New Jersey State Police , New Jersey motorists are subject to state roadway safety requirements. In this incident, Lakehurst police said the crash was reported at approximately 6:22 a.m. on September 10. The initial investigation indicates a 2018 Thomas Built school bus driven by John Murray Jr., 64, of Toms River, was traveling east on Union Avenue when it crossed into the westbound lane while navigating a curve.
Police said the school bus struck the rear portion of a 2022 white Ford F-250 pickup truck driven by David Cella, 47, of Manchester. The impact caused the Ford to spin and become disabled in the roadway. The bus continued east, left the roadway, and struck the front of a nearby home.
Murray and Cella both sustained minor injuries and were evaluated at a hospital. There were no students aboard the school bus, and authorities said the house was unoccupied when the crash occurred. Both vehicles sustained significant damage and were towed from the scene. The home also sustained significant damage and was declared unsafe for occupancy.
Union Avenue remained closed for approximately three and a half hours while emergency crews secured the area and police conducted their preliminary investigation. Lakehurst police identified failure to maintain a lane as the apparent primary contributing factor. The investigation remains ongoing.
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People injured in vehicle crashes may face medical expenses, missed work, insurance questions, and other unexpected consequences. Understanding car accident laws in New Jersey can help motorists become familiar with issues that may affect an insurance or injury claim.
Anyone searching for a car accident near me or a car accident near Lakehurst should consider preserving photographs, medical documents, repair estimates, witness information, and correspondence with insurers. Obtaining a car accident report can also provide an important record of information documented by investigating authorities.
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This article is based on preliminary information released by local authorities, and reported details may change as the investigation develops. Readers seeking general information about accident claims can review frequently asked questions in New Jersey .
The individuals identified in the initial report are John Murray Jr. and David Cella. Additional findings concerning the circumstances of the crash or any enforcement action may be released as authorities continue their investigation. Motorists should check with local authorities or traffic monitoring services for current information about road closures or travel conditions.
Those seeking additional information and support following a collision can review accident resources in New Jersey .
This news story is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. Information is based on public reports available at the time of publication and may change as authorities release additional findings. Readers should consult an appropriate professional regarding their individual circumstances. The publisher assumes no liability for actions taken or not taken based on this article. Learn more through our disclaimer.
If you were hurt in a vehicle accident, consider contacting a New Jersey personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your rights, important deadlines, and available legal options.