Driver who crashed with motorcyclist at Budd Lake sought

MOUNT OLIVE TWP. – Police are asking for the public’s help in finding the driver of an eternal blue-colored Honda Accord who fled the scene of a crash that left a motorcyclist injured Saturday evening.

The incident, which police referred to as a hit and run motor vehicle accident, occurred on Route 46 at its intersection with Cedar Street around 6:41 p.m., the time when the Mount Olive Police Communications Center started receiving multiple 911 calls about a serious crash.

Police responded to find Peter Fornarucci, the operator of a motorcycle, lying on Route 46 with serious injuries. Police administered medical aid until members of the Budd Lake Fire Department and Budd Lake Rescue Squad arrived. Fornarucci was then airlifted to a hospital for treatment, according to a police release issued Tuesday.

Police learned at the scene that a dark blue sedan believed to be a Honda Accord attempted to turn onto Cedar Street from Route 46 and in doing so turned in front of Fornarucci, causing him to crash into the rear passenger side of the vehicle. The Accord sustained heavy rear bumper damage and the operator left before police arrived.

Anyone with information pertaining to this case is asked to contact Detective Eric Krouse, Mount Olive Investigations Division, at 973-691-0900 Ext. 7203.

Staff Writer Peggy Wright: 973-267-1142; pwright@GannettNJ.com.