LAVALLETTE – One woman was killed and several other people were hospitalized after a vehicle careened through an outdoor seating area at a Lavallette restaurant Saturday morning, authorities said.
Police were called to Meg’s Grill on Grand Central Avenue at approximately 11:12 a.m. following reports that an SUV had struck customers and the building.
Investigators said a 93-year-old Lavallette resident was maneuvering a 2014 Buick Encore into a parking space when she apparently pressed the gas pedal rather than the brake. The vehicle lurched toward the restaurant and hit customers seated outside.
Seven diners were taken to area hospitals for treatment. A 56-year-old Toms River resident died from her injuries. Her name was withheld pending notification of her family.
The motorist sustained injuries described as minor. Restaurant employees were not hurt, and the structure did not suffer significant damage, according to the business.
Meg’s Grill announced that it would not open Sunday or Monday, giving employees time to process the tragedy and out of respect for the victims. The owner expressed sympathy for those injured and encouraged community members to hold their loved ones close.
The restaurant also praised the first responders and bystanders who rushed to assist immediately after the impact, saying their actions demonstrated the community’s compassion during an emergency.
The response included personnel from Lavallette’s police, fire, first aid and building departments. Agencies from Ocean County, Toms River, Ocean Beach, Seaside Heights and TriBoro also provided assistance.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
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