New Brunswick HS vice principal killed by drag racer in hit-and-run

BY Christopher Lang, Correspondent, @topherlang2 | MonroeNow | Oct 10, 2018

NEW BRUNSWICK – Middlesex County and local authorities are seeking the public’s help in identifying the driver in a hit-and-run accident on Oct. 6 that resulted in the death of a high school vice principal.

According to a statement from Middlesex County Prosecutor Andrew C. Carey and Piscataway Police Chief Scott Cartmell on Oct. 10, Tyrone Harrison, 49, of Somerset and a New Brunswick High School vice principal, was killed on Stelton Road near Ethel Road at approximately 9:17 p.m. when he was walking from the Edison train station headed to a relative’s house.

Police believe the fatal accident was the result of unknown individuals drag racing when someone hit Harrison and fled the scene. Harrison was pronounced dead at the scene.

“Middlesex County currently has the highest rate of fatal car crashes in New Jersey,” said Carey. “Law enforcement is working diligently every day to lower the number of these fatalities.”

A preliminary investigation by Ptrl. Meredith Robbins of the Piscataway police and Detective Jonathan Berman of the Prosecutor’s Office determined that “multiple vehicles were drag racing at approximately 9:17 p.m. on Stelton Avenue, Piscataway.” They believe that one of the vehicles involved was a 2003 Honda Accord, which struck Harrison near the intersection of Ethel Road.

According to the statement, police believe the drivers involved are part of a drag racing club called “78 Imports,” which races on public roads.

“This tragic death was entirely preventable and unnecessary,” Carey said. “Drag racing on public roads is dangerous and irresponsible. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Harrison’s family and the school community.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Robbins at 732-562-7652 or Berman at 732-745-4328.