According to police, the crash happened at approximately 1:13 a.m. in the northbound lanes at mile marker 135.6 in Clark.
State Police officials said a Nissan Pathfinder struck the rear of a Nissan Rogue.
According to State Police, the Pathfinder then left the roadway to the right, traveled through the guardrail and then through a metal chain link fence before striking several trees and overturning into the Middlesex Reservoir.
Officials said the driver, Mr. Brian Demeo, 49, of North Caldwell, was ejected and sustained fatal injuries.
The driver and passenger of the Rogue sustained minor injuries, according to NJ State Police.
The right two lanes were closed for approximately 2 hours and the cause of the crash is still being investigated.