Honda Pilot struck a pedestrian near Essex Street and fled the scene
May 08, 2026 | Hackensack, NJ
A 74-year-old man died after being struck by a vehicle in Hackensack early Friday morning.
What Happened in the Hackensack Crash?
Terrence J. Hedden, 38, of Bergenfield, was charged after a fatal hit-and-run pedestrian crash near Essex Street and Summit Avenue in Hackensack.
- Date and time: Early Friday morning, around 12:49 a.m.
- Location: Intersection of Essex Street and Summit Avenue
- Vehicle involved: 2021 Honda Pilot
- Outcome: Victim pronounced dead at Hackensack University Medical Center
- Suspect: 38-year-old Terrence J. Hedden of Bergenfield charged with leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death and third-degree endangering an injured victim
Why Do Hit-and-Run Accidents Occur?
More than one hit-and-run crash takes place every minute across the United States. Drivers often leave the scene because they are impaired, unlicensed, or fear arrest.
| Source | Statistic | Details |
|---|
| NJ Office of the Attorney General | 175 pedestrian deaths in 2025 | 24% decrease from the prior year |
| Federal Highway Administration | Frequent causes | Distraction, rushing, or inattention |
Legal Insights
In cases such as this, thorough accident reconstruction helps identify all vehicles involved and clarify the circumstances that led to the collision.
Andrew G. Finkelstein, managing partner at Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices, noted the importance of proper investigation to protect family rights after a fatal incident.
- Families may pursue claims for loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
- Insurance companies often attempt to shift blame to reduce payouts.
- Experienced legal representation can counter these tactics and support those affected.
Newsline is a premier digital news platform owned by Belsito Communications, Inc.
The outlet maintains an unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity and editorial excellence, with a Correction Policy guaranteeing review within 24 hours.
(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.
If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one due to a hit-and-run driver, our national legal analyst Andrew G. Finkelstein is available to provide a free, no-obligation 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).
Tags: Latest News, Non Commercial, Pedestrian Accident, New Jersey, Bergen County, Hackensack, Fatal Accident, Hit-and-Run