By Jennifer Kohlhepp, Managing Editor
A pickup truck struck several patrons dining in front of Cranbury Pizza Saturday evening.
Keith Maluchnick, 46 of East Brunswick, was operating a gray 1993 Ford F-250 pickup while traveling west on Park Place East at 7:40 p.m., according to Cranbury police.
For reasons still under investigation, Mr. Maluchnick failed to stop or was unable to stop for the stop sign at the intersection with North Main Street, police said.
As the pickup entered the intersection, the vehicle hit the left rear of a blue 2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer operated by Nicole Lesniak, 38, of East Windsor. Following this initial impact, Mr. Maluchnick’s pickup continued across the south bound lane of North Main Street and up onto the sidewalk in front of Cranbury Pizza where it struck several tables and patrons of the restaurant as they were dining. The vehicle then came to an uncontrolled rest after striking the Cranbury Pizza building/structure, according to police.
There were three injuries related to the crash, police said.
Jason Lesniak, 40, of East Windsor, a front seat passenger in the Trailblazer, was transported to Princeton Medical Center for reported back pain.
The other two victims, also transported to Princeton Medical Center, are juveniles (ages 6 and 2). Their names are being withheld. They suffered cuts, scrapes and contusions to their legs and face, according to police.
Crash investigators are looking into all the physical evidence and witness statements. It is early in the investigation and a cause leading up to the crash has not yet been determined. However, both driver impairment and speed have been ruled out at this time, according to Cranbury police.
Investigators are also looking into possible criminal charges following the actions of individuals who were at the scene. It has been reported that immediately following the crash, bystanders threatened Mr. Maluchnick, causing damage and criminal mischief to Maluchnick’s vehicle, police said.
“I am disappointed and concerned with the actions exhibited at the scene by individuals,” Cranbury Police Chief Rickey Varga said. “During a scene such as this we have more of an expectation that people will act appropriately and accordingly, rendering any aid or assistance until police and first responders arrive as was the case with most others at the scene. Unfortunately, this was not true for all.”
Plainsboro Township police, Cranbury Volunteer Fire Department and Monroe Township Emergency Medical Services also responded and assisted at the scene.
Any witnesses are asked to contact the Cranbury Township Police Traffic Safety Bureau or Detective Bureau at 609-395-0031.
This story will be updated as more information about the investigation into the accident becomes available.
