Van Crash and Fire at Senior Living Complex on E Moss Mill Rd in Galloway, NJ 

Galloway, NJ (August 3, 2026) – More than 100 residents and staff members were evacuated after a van crashed and caught fire at a senior living complex on East Moss Mill Road in Galloway Township late Sunday night, August 2.

Police, the crash happened around 11:44 p.m. when a 2023 Ram van left the roadway, entered the parking area of the Ridgewood Senior Living at Historic Smithville complex, and struck several objects before coming to rest against the building. The van caught fire following the crash, but the flames did not spread into the structure.

Emergency crews extinguished the fire and evacuated more than 100 residents and staff members as a precaution. Two people suffered non-life-threatening injuries during the evacuation and were taken to a hospital.

Residents were later allowed to return to their rooms after crews determined the building did not sustain major damage.

Police said the driver, identified as 40-year-old Eliel Vazquez-Hernandez of Mays Landing, was taken into custody after officers suspected impairment. He faces charges including DUI, assault by auto, criminal mischief, and related offenses.

The incident remains under investigation.

We are relieved that residents and staff members were safely evacuated and hope those injured make a full recovery.

What Happens After a DUI Crash Causing Injuries in Galloway, NJ?

After a DUI crash involving injuries in Galloway, NJ, law enforcement typically investigates whether impairment contributed to the collision. These investigations may involve reviewing statements, vehicle evidence, test results, and other information collected after the crash.

A person injured in a crash involving an allegedly impaired driver may have questions about insurance coverage, medical expenses, and potential legal claims.

Documentation such as medical records, hospital bills, photographs, witness information, police reports, and records of related expenses may help provide important information when evaluating available options.

Crashes involving a vehicle striking a building or other property may also involve additional considerations, including property damage claims and questions about liability. Insurance companies may review the circumstances of the crash before determining how coverage applies to the losses involved.

Because every DUI-related crash presents different circumstances, the legal issues and available options can vary.

The legal and insurance issues following a New Jersey DUI crash may depend on factors such as the circumstances of the collision, the available evidence, the injuries involved, and the applicable coverage.

Reviewing accident reports, medical records, and other relevant documentation may help clarify how state law and potential claims may apply. Legal guidance may also assist with preserving important records, communicating with insurance providers, and evaluating possible options based on the facts of the case.

At The Law Offices of Sander Budanitsky, we can help if you were affected by a DUI car crash in New Jersey.

You can contact our personal injury lawyers at (908) 241-3445 to get the help you need during this challenging time.

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.