Daniel Carmelo killed in two-vehicle crash on Interstate 295

Sprinter van struck stopped Mack truck near milepost 64.7 in Hamilton Township

April 24, 2026 | Hamilton Township, NJ

A tragic traffic incident in Hamilton Township claimed the life of 25-year-old Daniel H. Carmelo from Mount Royal. 

The crash occurred when a southbound Dodge Sprinter van struck a stationary Mack truck on the right shoulder of Interstate 295 near milepost 64.7 around 3:31 p.m. on April 24.

Daniel H. Carmelo, 25, died after a Dodge Sprinter van struck a parked Mack truck on Interstate 295 near milepost 64.7 in Hamilton Township.

What Happened in the Crash?

New Jersey State Police reported the details of this fatal accident. 

Key facts include:

• Location: Interstate 295 southbound, milepost 64.7, Hamilton Township, New Jersey
• Vehicles Involved: Dodge Sprinter van and a stopped Mack truck
• Time and Date: Approximately 3:31 p.m. on April 24
• Victim: Daniel H. Carmelo, 25, passenger in the van, pronounced dead from injuries
• Driver Status: Hospitalized with minor injuries
• Agency: New Jersey State Police is leading the investigation

The collision resulted in an immediate emergency response, but Carmelo could not be saved.

Why Do These Accidents Happen?

Rear-end collisions with stopped vehicles on highways often stem from factors like distracted driving, speeding, or poor visibility. In New Jersey, such incidents contribute to hundreds of fatalities annually. According to data from the New Jersey Attorney General and the Division of Highway Traffic Safety, 547 lives were lost in traffic accidents in 2025.

This table highlights the persistent challenge of highway safety in the state, underscoring the need for vigilant driving practices.

Legal Insights

In cases such as this involving motor vehicle crashes, thorough investigations are crucial to establish fault and liability. Andrew G. Finkelstein, managing partner at Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices, emphasizes the role of legal representation.

"It is essential to reconstruct the accident to identify all the vehicles involved and determine the circumstances that led to the accident or the driver at fault."

Finkelstein also notes the challenges posed by insurance companies:

"Insurance companies are never on the side of a victim injured or killed in a motor vehicle accident. According to the Insurance Research Council, on average, an injured person who receives help from a lawyer ends up receiving three and a half times more money than those who do not."

Key takeaways from legal perspectives on wrongful death claims:

• Families may pursue compensation for loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
• Avoid giving statements to insurance adjusters immediately after a crash, as shock can impact outcomes.
• Competent legal guidance helps protect rights throughout the process.
• Hiring an attorney early maximizes potential recovery in catastrophic incidents.

Pending the ongoing investigation, the family of Daniel Carmelo may explore options for a wrongful death claim to seek justice.

Newsline, a premier digital news platform owned by Belsito Communications, Inc., upholds rigorous editorial standards with an unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity and editorial excellence. 

For transparency, view our Corrections Policy, which guarantees a 24-hour review of any submitted corrections via the Corrections Form.

(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)

Newsline - is your trusted source for legal news and accident reports, delivering timely updates to keep you informed.