By Crash News Writer 
Newark, NJ (August 17, 2026) – A 17-year-old pedestrian, identified as Zakiyah Dansby of Newark, was killed after being struck by a gray sedan near Bloomfield Avenue and Mount Prospect Avenue on August 16. The fatal hit-and-run occurred at approximately 8:52 p.m.
According to the New Jersey State Police, surveillance video reportedly showed the gray sedan traveling at a high rate of speed before striking Dansby. A Newark police officer in an unmarked vehicle had observed the sedan traveling eastbound on Bloomfield Avenue and made a U-turn. Shortly afterward, the pedestrian was struck.
The officer stopped to provide aid and notified the Newark Police Division. Dansby was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities said the sedan’s driver left the area following the crash.
Police identified the accused driver as 26-year-old Erik Montesinos of Bloomfield. Later that evening, Montesinos reportedly contacted the Newark Police Division’s Second Precinct and said he had been involved in a car crash before turning himself in.
Montesinos was charged with second-degree vehicular homicide, second-degree leaving the scene of a crash resulting in death, and third-degree endangering an injured victim. These are criminal charges, and the allegations have not been proven in court.
The New Jersey Attorney General’s Office Fatal Police Encounter Unit also responded to investigate whether the death occurred during an encounter with law enforcement as defined under applicable state requirements. The initial vehicular homicide investigation was conducted by the New Jersey State Police with assistance from the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office.
Protect Your Rights After a Fatal Accident Today
Fatal pedestrian crashes can result in complex investigations involving law enforcement records, surveillance footage, witness accounts, vehicle evidence, and insurance documentation. Families affected by a deadly collision may benefit from preserving available evidence and obtaining information about their legal rights as early as possible.
Understanding car accident laws in New Jersey can provide important information about insurance requirements, legal deadlines, and potential claims following a fatal crash. Families searching for a car accident near me or a car accident near Newark may also need to obtain the relevant car accident report and preserve communications with insurance companies and investigating agencies.
Legal action after a fatal accident may involve issues that differ significantly from an ordinary property damage claim. An attorney can review investigative records, available video, medical and financial documentation, and other evidence while explaining potential options to surviving family members. Anyone researching a car accident near me or a car accident near Newark should be aware that filing deadlines can apply. Obtaining the car accident report and seeking qualified guidance promptly can help families make informed decisions about their next steps.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This article is based on initial publicly reported information concerning an ongoing investigation. Allegations and investigative findings may change as authorities gather additional evidence. Readers can review frequently asked questions in New Jersey for general information concerning accidents and related claims.
- Authorities identified the deceased pedestrian as 17-year-old Zakiyah Dansby of Newark.
- Charges filed against an individual are allegations, and guilt must be established through the judicial process.
- Further information concerning the investigation or court proceedings may be released by the appropriate authorities.
Families seeking additional information following a serious or fatal collision can also 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 details may change as investigations progress. Readers are encouraged to seek legal counsel if they or someone they know has 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 with our disclaimer.
Families affected by a fatal accident should consider calling an attorney as soon as possible to discuss their rights and available legal options. A New Jersey personal injury lawyer can review the circumstances and explain possible next steps.