Crossing guard pushed two students from path of vehicle in Woodland Park
May 04, 2026 | Woodland Park, NJ
Woodland Park authorities report that a dedicated crossing guard lost her life while protecting schoolchildren from an oncoming vehicle.
The incident occurred near a busy intersection, highlighting the dangers faced by those safeguarding pedestrians daily.
Jean Schultz, 80, died after being struck by a vehicle while helping two students cross at Lackawanna and McBride avenues in Woodland Park.
What Happened in the Woodland Park Crossing Guard Crash?
The Passaic County Prosecutor's Office detailed a tragic accident where 80-year-old Jean Schultz was assisting two students across the street. As a vehicle approached, Schultz heroically shoved the children to safety, but she sustained fatal injuries in the process.
- Location: Lackawanna and McBride Avenues, Woodland Park, NJ
- Time: Approximately 3:30 p.m. on a Monday
- Victim: Jean Schultz, 80, experienced crossing guard
- Injuries: Schultz was transported to Saint Joseph's University Medical Center and pronounced deceased. The two children suffered minor injuries and received hospital treatment
- Response: Emergency services responded promptly, and an ongoing investigation seeks to determine the circumstances
Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?
Driver inattention remains a leading factor in collisions involving pedestrians, especially near schools and crosswalks. Distractions such as mobile devices or hurried driving contribute significantly to these preventable tragedies.
Legal Insights on Pedestrian Crashes
National legal analyst Andrew G. Finkelstein, managing partner at Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices, provides a perspective on handling such incidents.
“In cases such as this, driver negligence often plays a central role in pedestrian accidents. Whether due to distractions like cell phones, rushing, or failing to yield, these crashes lead to severe outcomes,” Finkelstein noted.
Key takeaways from the analysis:
- Reconstructing the scene is crucial to identifying all parties and the fault
- Families may pursue compensation for emotional and financial losses
- Engaging skilled representation early protects against insurance tactics that minimize liability
- Psychological impacts from such losses require comprehensive support beyond legal remedies
Pedestrian Safety Statistics in New Jersey
Data from reliable sources underscores the rising risks for pedestrians in the state.
Organization |
Statistic |
Details |
|---|
Municipal Excess Liability Joint Insurance Fund (MEL) |
65% increase |
Traffic collisions involving crossing guards over recent years |
NJ Office of the Attorney General and Division of Highway Traffic Safety |
175 fatalities |
Pedestrian deaths in the Garden State in 2025 were down 24% from prior year |
These figures, drawn from official reports, emphasize the need for heightened awareness around school zones.
Potential Wrongful Death Claims Following the Incident
Families affected by fatal pedestrian strikes may explore wrongful death actions to address losses, including companionship, suffering, and distress. Insurance providers often challenge claims to limit settlements, making professional guidance essential.
“Victims and their loved ones endure profound mental and physical tolls. In fatal scenarios, insurers may shift blame to reduce compensation, but experienced counsel can advocate effectively,” added Finkelstein.
Pending investigation results, Schultz's relatives could seek damages to aid recovery and stability.
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Newsline''s national legal analyst Andrew G. Finkelstein has extensive experience with fatal pedestrian accidents. If you or a loved one need support, he’s available for a free consultation to help guide you.
(Andrew G. Finkelstein, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices to help you, please call 855-976-8163 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).