By Crash News Writer 
Newark, NJ (October 10, 2026) – A 54-year-old Georgia man was killed Thursday morning, October 8, after being struck by a vehicle while standing along Interstate 78 in Newark.
According to the New Jersey State Police, troopers responded to the fatal collision at approximately 9:34 a.m. on westbound Interstate 78 near milepost 55.4.
Investigators identified the victim as Tony Gilliam, 54, of Jonesboro, Georgia.
According to the preliminary investigation, Gilliam was driving a Ram pickup truck westbound on Interstate 78 when he pulled onto the right shoulder and stopped his vehicle.
Gilliam exited the pickup truck and was standing in the roadway area when a Honda passenger vehicle traveled off the right side of the highway.
The Honda entered the shoulder and struck Gilliam before continuing forward and colliding with his parked Ram pickup truck.
Gilliam sustained fatal injuries in the collision. Authorities reported that no other individuals were injured.
The initial report did not identify the Honda’s driver or establish why the vehicle left the travel lanes.
Additional information about possible contributing factors or citations was not provided.
The circumstances surrounding the fatal collision remain under investigation.
Protect Your Rights After a Fatal Accident Today
Fatal pedestrian accidents along busy highways can leave surviving families facing funeral expenses, lost financial support, and unexpected emotional hardships. When a vehicle leaves its travel lane and strikes someone on the shoulder, investigators may examine driver actions, roadway conditions, visibility, and other evidence to determine what happened.
Families affected by fatal highway collisions should preserve available documentation, including witness information, insurance records, and communications with investigating authorities.
If you are searching for a car accident near me or researching a car accident near Newark, understanding New Jersey’s insurance requirements and wrongful death laws can help clarify your legal options.
Reviewing the car accident laws in New Jersey can provide information about liability, insurance coverage, and deadlines for pursuing compensation.
An official car accident report may also help document important details about the collision, including vehicle movements, witness statements, roadway conditions, and investigative findings.
Whether you are researching a car accident near me or seeking assistance following a car accident near Newark, an attorney can evaluate the available evidence and explain whether a wrongful death claim may be appropriate.
Taking action within the applicable deadlines can help preserve evidence and protect the opportunity to pursue compensation for qualifying losses.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This article is based on preliminary information released by the New Jersey State Police. Additional findings may become available as investigators continue reviewing the fatal collision.
- Tony Gilliam, 54, of Jonesboro, Georgia, died in the collision.
- The accident occurred on westbound Interstate 78 near milepost 55.4 at approximately 9:34 a.m.
- Gilliam had stopped his Ram pickup truck on the right shoulder before exiting the vehicle.
- A Honda passenger vehicle reportedly left the roadway and struck Gilliam before colliding with his parked pickup truck.
- No additional injuries were reported.
- The initial report did not establish why the Honda left the travel lanes.
Individuals seeking an official car accident report should contact the New Jersey State Police for information about requesting available accident records.
For additional information about fatal pedestrian accidents, insurance coverage, and wrongful death claims, review our frequently asked questions in New Jersey.
Families affected by fatal collisions can also explore our accident resources in New Jersey for additional guidance.
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Information is based on publicly available reports at the time of publication and may change as authorities release additional findings. Readers should consult qualified professionals regarding their individual circumstances. The publisher assumes no liability for actions taken or not taken based on this information. Learn more by reviewing our disclaimer.
If your family lost a loved one in a fatal pedestrian accident, contact a New Jersey personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your legal rights and potential wrongful death compensation.