Oct. 28, 2024, 5:47 p.m. ET

A serious accident occurred on Route 23 in Franklin Borough, New Jersey, around 10:40 a.m. on May 27, resulting in the death of 19-year-old Deanna D’Arco.

According to the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office, a patrol vehicle driven by Sgt. William Grissom collided with a black Honda Prelude, operated by 21-year-old Darian Carver. D’Arco was a front-seat passenger in the Honda, which was traveling in the wrong direction at the time of the accident.

D’Arco sustained severe injuries and died two days later at Morristown Medical Center. Carver, who was identified as D’Arco’s boyfriend, received four motor vehicle summonses but did not suffer serious injuries.

Witnesses reported that Route 23 southbound was blocked due to a Memorial Day parade, and Grissom’s patrol vehicle was parked horizontally across the southbound lane before the incident. At the time of the collision, Grissom’s vehicle was allegedly traveling at 38 mph, just above the 35 mph speed limit. The patrol vehicle’s emergency lights were not activated.

Following the crash, Grissom notified dispatch, stating, “I just had an accident.” He reported one person was “unconscious, unresponsive” in the other car.

Authorities stated that the ongoing investigation by the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability is reviewing all circumstances surrounding the incident. No criminal charges have been filed against Grissom, and the investigation remains active.

Both D’Arco’s and Carver’s families have initiated GoFundMe campaigns to support funeral costs and provide assistance, raising significant funds in the aftermath of the tragic incident.