Community Corner
Teen Dies In Crash Months After Freehold Mom Killed In Domestic Violence Incident, Report Says
The 17-year-old died in a crash on Route 72 on Tuesday, just months after his mother died in January, the report said.
Editor's Note: If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence, please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text “START” to 88788.
FREEHOLD, NJ — A New Jersey teenager died in a car crash just months after his Freehold mother was killed in a domestic violence incident in January, according to a report from NJ Advance Media.
Gabriel Saldana, 17, passed away after his vehicle collided with a utility pole and then rolled over on Route 72 in Stafford Township early Tuesday.
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According to police, Saldana was trapped inside his vehicle and died from his injuries at the scene. Authorities said he may have fallen asleep at the wheel prior to the crash.
"The Stafford Township Police Department extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the teenage driver during this painful time," Stafford Township Police said in a news release.
Find out what's happening in Freeholdfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
According to the report from NJ Advance Media, friends and family of Saldana said Gabriel was the son of Lauren Saldana, a Freehold resident who was killed in a domestic violence incident in January.
Roman Romanovskiy, 41, of South Brunswick, was charged in Lauren’s death, which police said occurred in the presence of children. Lauren had a three-week-old baby at the time of her death.
“This is very devastating for the family,” Laura Anderson, whose son was a close friend of Gabriel’s, told NJ Advance Media.
Following the crash on Tuesday, a GoFundMe was started to support Gabriel's family during this time.
“Gabe was full of life, love, and passion,” Kayla, the fund organizer, said. “If you were lucky enough to know Gabe, you’d know his infectious smile and beautiful laugh could light up any room.”
“Gabe was passionate about music. There wasn’t a feeling he couldn’t describe with a quick song. His brain was remarkable,” she continued. “He loved his family and friends with an intensity that I will admire forever. He was infectious. Point, blank, period. I can’t say it better than that.”
The donation goal for the GoFundMe is $12,000. As of Thursday afternoon, $8,368 has been raised. To donate to the GoFundMe, you can click here.
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