Authorities in Jamesburg have released new details surrounding a devastating crash that claimed the life of 28-year-old Juan Camilo Chara Lucumi over the weekend.
According to Jamesburg police, officers responded to the area of Forsgate Drive and Buckelew Avenue around 1:16 a.m. on Sunday, May 10, following reports of a serious vehicle accident. When emergency crews arrived, they discovered the vehicle completely engulfed in flames with the driver trapped inside.
The Middlesex County Medical Examiner’s Office later pronounced Juan Camilo Chara Lucumi, a resident of Union County, dead at the scene.
Preliminary investigations indicate the vehicle was traveling eastbound on Forsgate Drive at what authorities described as an “extremely high rate of speed” when the driver lost control. Police say the vehicle struck the dam wall near the entrance to Thompson Park before becoming airborne, crossing over Buckelew Avenue, and crashing into a bridge above Manalapan Creek.
Investigators estimate the car traveled nearly 250 feet through the air before landing in an embankment near the creek. The cause of the crash remains under active investigation.
Family and friends are mourning the tragic loss of Juan Camilo, remembered as a beloved son and friend. A GoFundMe campaign organized by Thayna Costa has been launched to help cover funeral expenses and transport his remains to Colombia, where loved ones hope to lay him to rest beside family members.
Community members continue offering prayers and condolences during this heartbreaking time.