Union Co., NJ – Sheriff’s Officer Killed in Motorcycle Crash on I-78 W near MM 43.4

Union County, NJ (April 13, 2026) – A Union County Sheriff’s Officer lost his life after a motorcycle crash on Interstate 78 in Union County. The accident happened on Friday, April 10, in the westbound lanes near mile marker 43.4.

Authorities said Officer Joseph DeVito, 28, was riding his motorcycle westbound when it collided with a semi-trailer. The truck, which was hauling a car carrier, traveled in the right lane at the time of the crash. 

Emergency units responded quickly and worked to assist the injured officer at the scene. Despite these efforts, Officer DeVito died from his injuries. The driver of the semi-trailer, a 32-year-old man from Groveport, Ohio, did not report injuries.

Investigators are reviewing the events that led to the crash. The investigation remains ongoing as the New Jersey State Police gathers more information. 

We extend our sincere condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Officer DeVito.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Union County, NJ?

In Union County and throughout New Jersey, a wrongful death claim is filed by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate. This representative acts on behalf of surviving family members when seeking compensation after a fatal accident. Close relatives, such as spouses, children, or dependents, may benefit from the claim under New Jersey law.

Fatal motorcycle crashes often raise questions about legal steps and financial recovery. These incidents can involve serious injuries and complex factors such as roadway conditions, vehicle movement, and right-of-way.It is an important first step for families who are reviewing their options to understand who can take legal action.

Families may face financial challenges after a fatal accident, including funeral expenses and the sudden loss of income. Some may also need to manage outstanding medical bills or other related costs. Keeping records of these expenses can help provide a clearer picture of the impact over time.

New Jersey law sets rules for how wrongful death claims move forward. These claims may include compensation for financial losses and other damages tied to the accident. Timelines apply, so starting the process early can help ensure that required steps are completed within the legal deadline.

A wrongful death lawyer can explain how wrongful death claims work and what may apply in a specific case. Legal guidance may help with reviewing evidence, organizing documents, and handling communication with insurance companies. An attorney can also outline what types of compensation may be available based on the situation.

Our team at the Law Offices of Sander Budanitsky has experience reviewing fatal accident cases throughout Union County, NJ, and explaining available options. We can help clarify how claims, documentation, and legal timelines may apply to your situation. 

We can also walk through common steps families take after a serious collision. If you have questions, you can contact our personal injury lawyers at (908) 241-3445 to discuss your case.

Note: This post has been prepared using publicly available secondary sources. The facts surrounding the incident have not been independently confirmed. If you believe any portion of this report contains inaccurate or outdated information, please contact The Law Offices of Sander Budanitsky, L.L.C. so we can promptly review and update the content to ensure accuracy and reliability.

Disclaimer: The information presented in this post is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or medical advice. Reading this post does not create an attorney-client relationship, nor does it constitute a request for legal representation. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, please seek immediate medical care.
Any images included in this post are for illustrative purposes only and do not depict the actual accident scene.