By Crash News Writer 
Middle Township, NJ (October 20, 2026) – A Middle Township police officer suffered serious injuries after being struck by a suspected impaired driver during a traffic stop on Route 47 South on Friday, October 16.
According to the New Jersey State Police, the state’s law enforcement agency, the collision occurred shortly after 10:00 p.m. on Route 47 South, also known as Wildwood Boulevard. The Middle Township Police Department identified the injured officer as Patrolman Austin Kapurelos, who was conducting a motor vehicle stop when he was struck.
Emergency personnel provided immediate medical assistance before transporting Kapurelos to AtlantiCare Medical Center. As of October 17, he remained in critical but stable condition.
Authorities identified the driver as 36-year-old Lucio Lopez-Perez of Erma, New Jersey. Police reported that Lopez-Perez remained at the scene and was taken into custody on suspicion of impaired driving.
Lopez-Perez faces charges of driving while intoxicated, assault by auto, and violating public health and safety laws resulting in serious bodily injury, along with additional traffic offenses. He was subsequently held at the Cape May County Correctional Center on a warrant. All charges remain allegations, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
No additional injuries were reported. Route 47 South remained closed for approximately four hours while investigators examined the crash scene.
The Middle Township Police Department and Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office are investigating the collision. Anyone who witnessed the accident or has relevant video footage is encouraged to contact the Middle Township Police Department at 609-465-8700.
Protect Your Rights After an Accident Today
Accidents involving suspected impaired drivers can result in life-changing injuries, extensive medical treatment, and significant financial losses. When a pedestrian or someone standing outside a vehicle is struck, the injuries may be especially severe because they have little protection against the impact.
Anyone injured in a collision should seek medical attention, preserve available evidence, and obtain an official car accident report. Medical records, witness statements, surveillance footage, and police findings may help establish what happened and whether negligence contributed to the accident.
For individuals searching for a car accident near me or a car accident near Middle Township, understanding car accident laws in New Jersey can help explain insurance requirements and potential legal remedies.
New Jersey law allows eligible injured individuals to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. However, claims involving on-duty police officers may also involve workers’ compensation and additional legal considerations.
Whether you were involved in a car accident near me or a car accident near Middle Township, preserving evidence and obtaining a car accident report can help protect your interests. Consulting an attorney can help clarify which legal options may apply to your situation.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This article is based on information released by the Middle Township Police Department and reported by Cape May Scanner on October 17, 2026. Details may change as investigators continue reviewing the collision.
Patrolman Austin Kapurelos was reported to be in critical but stable condition following the accident. No more recent medical update was provided in the source material.
Lucio Lopez-Perez has been charged in connection with the collision. The charges are allegations, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
The Middle Township Police Department and Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office are continuing their investigation.
Route 47 South was closed for approximately four hours following the crash. Motorists should consult local authorities for current traffic information.
Readers seeking information about injury claims, insurance procedures, and legal rights can review the frequently asked questions in New Jersey.
Additional accident resources in New Jersey are available for injured individuals and families seeking information about medical treatment, insurance claims, and recovery.
This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Information is based on initial public reporting and may change as additional official details become available. Please review our disclaimer for further information.
If you or someone you know was injured by a suspected impaired driver, contact a New Jersey personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your rights and determine whether you may be eligible to pursue compensation.