Ruth Benjamin died in pedestrian crash on Irvington Avenue in Newark

Pickup struck parked SUV then hit woman outside laundromat before entering building

April 27, 2026 | Newark, NJ

An 81-year-old Newark resident, Ruth Benjamin, died after a pickup truck veered onto the sidewalk outside the Ivy Hill Laundromat on Irvington Avenue around 2:30 p.m. on April 27. 

The incident, under investigation by the Essex County Prosecutor's Office, involved the truck striking a parked SUV before hitting Benjamin and crashing into the building.

Ruth Benjamin, 81, died after she was hit by vehicles outside the Ivy Hill Laundromat on Irvington Avenue in Newark.

What Happened in the Crash?

The sequence of the crash unfolded rapidly when the pickup truck lost control and collided with a stationary SUV parked in front of the laundromat. The collision forced both vehicles into Ruth Benjamin, who was standing nearby, ultimately pinning her against the structure.

Key details include:

• Victim: Ruth Benjamin, 81, of Newark
• Location: Ivy Hill Laundromat, Irvington Avenue, Newark, NJ
• Time: Approximately 2:30 p.m. on April 27
• Vehicles Involved: Pickup truck, driver fled, and parked SUV
• Outcome: Benjamin was pronounced dead at the scene due to injuries

The truck driver fled the scene and has not been identified. Authorities encourage tips from witnesses by calling 1-877-847-7432.

Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?

Pedestrian crashes often stem from driver negligence, such as distractions from cell phones, speeding, or failure to yield. In hit-and-run scenarios, drivers may flee to evade accountability, though such actions constitute a serious offense.

According to the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General and the Division of Highway Traffic Safety, pedestrian fatalities in the state dropped to 175 in 2025, marking a 24% decline from the prior year. Nationally, hit-and-run incidents occur more than once per minute, highlighting a persistent road safety challenge.

These figures underscore the need for heightened awareness and stricter enforcement to prevent similar tragedies.

Legal Insights

In cases such as this involving pedestrian incidents and hit-and-runs, thorough investigations are crucial to uncover fault and support affected families.

"Driver negligence is typically at the root of most pedestrian accidents, whether from distractions like cell phones, rushing, or lack of attention. These crashes lead to devastating injuries," said Andrew G. Finkelstein, managing partner at Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices and a national legal analyst for Newsline.

Finkelstein emphasizes the role of skilled legal representation in reconstructing the circumstances and holding parties accountable.

Key takeaways:

• Fleeing the scene does not absolve responsibility, and it compounds legal consequences.
• Families may pursue wrongful death claims for losses including companionship, emotional distress, and financial support.
• Avoid direct statements to insurance companies, as they often aim to minimize payouts by shifting blame.
• Competent counsel can identify all involved parties and navigate complex claims to aid recovery.

Pending the ongoing investigation, Ruth Benjamin's family could be eligible for a wrongful death lawsuit, seeking compensation for the profound impacts of this loss.

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, review our Corrections Policy, which guarantees a 24-hour review of any submitted concerns 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.