By: Richard L. Smith
A 19-year-old Bridgewater resident has been charged in connection with a fatal head-on crash that claimed the life of a Piscataway man and injured three others on Finderne Avenue earlier this month.
Somerset County Prosecutor John P. McDonald, Acting Chief of County Detectives Meredith McKay, and Bridgewater Township Police Chief John B. Mitzak announced the arrest of Dylan A. Baez following an investigation into the June 13 collision.
Police responded to Finderne Avenue near Van Veghten Drive at approximately 9:41 p.m. and found a Honda and a Kia involved in a serious two-vehicle crash.
Investigators said Baez, who was operating the Honda, was transported to a regional trauma center for treatment of injuries.
The driver of the Kia, identified as Joel R. Dominguez-Cruz of Piscataway, suffered critical injuries and was pronounced dead after being transported to a local trauma hospital.
Three passengers riding in the Kia were also taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
According to investigators, evidence collected at the scene indicated the Honda was traveling northbound when it crossed the centerline into the southbound lane and struck the Kia head-on.
Following the investigation, Baez was charged on June 17 with first-degree vehicular homicide, second-degree assault by auto, and two counts of third-degree assault by auto.
Authorities said Baez was served with the charges while hospitalized. Upon his release, he is expected to be lodged in the Somerset County Jail pending a detention hearing.
The investigation remains active.