A 40-year-old Newark man is being accused of causing a nine-car crash on Routes 1&9 Monday afternoon.
Police were called to Routes 1&9 north near Communipaw Avenue for a report of a multi-vehicle crash.
Upon arrival, police determined that the driver of a tan SUV – later identified as Michael Polite of Newark - rear-ended a black Ford Explorer which lost control and spun out of control.
The Explorer then struck a van – occupied by six toddlers, ages 2 and 3 - and blue Honda Acord. All while Polite's SUV jumped the median resulting in a chain reaction crash involving as many as five cars.
During the investigation, Polite reportedly refused to take a field sobriety test and breathalyzer after responding officers suspected he was under the influence.
According to officials, eight passengers including six toddlers – were transported to Jersey City Medical Center but have since been released.
Three additional people were transported to Christ Hospital with unknown injuries.
Polite has been charged with driving while intoxicated.
The crash remains under investigation.