A tragic incident in Newark, New Jersey, on Monday resulted in the death of an 81-year-old woman and injuries to a laundromat employee. A pickup truck and an SUV collided and crashed into the Ivy Hill Laundromat on Irvington Avenue.

Fatal Crash and Arrest

Authorities have arrested Aides Benites Rivera, the driver of the Dodge Ram pickup truck, and charged him with leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death. The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed the arrest on Wednesday following a preliminary investigation.

Sequence of Events

Witnesses reported seeing Rivera consuming alcohol with another person in the strip mall parking lot before the collision. This observation is a key part of the ongoing investigation into whether impairment played a role in the accident.

Impact and Injuries

The crash sent debris throughout the laundromat, which contained approximately ten people at the time. Ruth Benjamin, 81, was sitting near the entrance and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Laundromat Employee Injured

A laundromat worker was also injured, thrown backwards by the impact. She received immediate medical attention and was transported to a local hospital. The extent of her injuries is currently unknown.

Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation

The incident has deeply affected the Newark community. Authorities are examining evidence, including vehicle data recorders and security footage, to build a case against Rivera.

The investigation is ongoing, and officials will likely review traffic safety measures in the area. The Ivy Hill Laundromat is currently closed for repairs. The focus is now on supporting the injured worker and seeking justice for Ruth Benjamin.