Community shaken after former assemblyman killed in Newark crash
Authorities say it happened around 7:30 a.m. at the intersection of McCarter Highway and South Street in Newark.
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A deadly crash in Newark took the life of a former assemblyman this morning. Alberto Coutinho, 56, was identified as the victim.
Mayor Ras Baraka said Coutinho was “a central pillar of our Portuguese community, the Ironbound, and the city at large.”
State Sen. Declan O’Scanlon said Coutinho was “a wonderful person. Smart, funny, loyal friend. The people of New Jersey lost when he left the legislature. The world has lost now that he's left it.”
The crash happened yesterday morning at South Street and McCarter Highway. Two cars were involved, according to prosecutors.
A nearby resident said he heard “a big explosion” and saw a car engulfed in flames. He said people were trying to resuscitate one of the drivers.
The other driver is expected to be OK. The case remains with Essex County prosecutors.
