Saddle Brook Police Chief John Zotollo Jr. identified the officer as Nicholas Genuario, who was sworn into the department in 2024.
Genuario had stopped a gray Nissan Maxima in the deceleration lane of Route 80 eastbound at milepost 62.4 around 4:34 a.m., New Jersey State Police said.
While Genuario was outside the vehicle, an unknown vehicle traveling east struck the left side of the Nissan and the officer before fleeing the scene, state police said. The officer suffered serious injuries, while all three occupants of the Nissan were unhurt, according to NJSP. Genuario was rushed to an area hospital and was in stable condition, police said.
Anyone who witnessed the crash or has information about what happened before, during, or after it is asked to call the NJSP Troop “B” Totowa Station at 973-785-9412. Anonymous tips are welcome.
State police also reminded drivers of New Jersey’s Move Over Law, which requires motorists approaching stopped emergency responders, law enforcement, tow truck operators, highway workers, or disabled vehicles with flashing lights to safely move over one lane when possible. Drivers who cannot safely move over must slow below the posted speed limit and be prepared to stop.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Daily Voice and receive free news updates.