By: Richard L. Smith
An Elizabeth man has been charged in connection with a deadly crash that claimed the life of a Newark resident late last month.
According to a statement released by Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II, 27-year-old John M. Arango-Taborda was arrested on April 1, 2026, following an investigation into the March 29 collision.
Authorities allege that Arango-Taborda was driving at a high rate of speed when he crashed into another vehicle at the intersection of McCarter Highway and South Street.
The driver of the other vehicle, identified as 56-year-old Alberto Coutinho of Newark, was transported to University Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
Officials said Arango-Taborda was also injured in the crash.
He is now facing charges including first-degree aggravated manslaughter and second-degree vehicular homicide.
Authorities emphasize that the charges are accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.