North Bergen, NJ — January 17, 2025, six people were injured in a truck accident at about 2 p.m. on Tonnelle Avenue.

Authorities said a dump truck loaded with rocks and dirt lost its brakes or the driver lost control on a steep hill on 71st Street, crashing into a semi-truck on Tonnelle Avenue before busting through the wall of a retail store across the street.

Five people were injured in the Target store, including a woman who had to be extricated from the store's bathroom, according to authorities.

The dump truck driver had to be extricated as well, but authorities said his injuries were minor.

Five six people who were injured in the crash were hospitalized, with two suffering serious injuries, according to authorities.

Authorities have not released any additional information about the crash at this point.

The accident is still under investigation.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

This crash in North Bergen highlights the potentially catastrophic consequences of losing control of a heavy vehicle like a dump truck. With six people injured, including two seriously, and significant property damage, understanding what caused the dump truck to crash is critical for accountability and improving public safety.

The key question is why the dump truck lost control. Early reports suggest a brake failure, but investigators will need to confirm whether the brakes malfunctioned due to mechanical issues or if the driver failed to operate the truck safely. A thorough inspection of the truck’s braking system and maintenance records will help determine whether the vehicle was in proper working order.

Another important factor is the role of the hill on 71st Street. Steep grades require extra caution from truck drivers, especially when hauling heavy loads. Investigators will likely examine whether the truck’s speed was appropriate for the hill and whether the driver used proper techniques, such as gearing down, to maintain control.

The collision with a semi-truck on Tonnelle Avenue and the subsequent crash into a retail store add to the complexity of the incident. The force needed to plow through a wall suggests that the truck was traveling at significant speed, raising further concerns about whether it was properly equipped to handle the load and the terrain.

For those injured inside the store, particularly the woman who had to be extricated, the incident serves as a stark reminder of how far-reaching the effects of losing control of a heavy vehicle can be. Beyond the physical injuries, such events highlight the importance of stringent safety measures for operating trucks in areas with steep terrain and high traffic.

For the injured parties and the community, finding answers about what caused this crash is essential. A thorough investigation will clarify whether the driver’s actions, vehicle condition or road design contributed to the incident and may guide efforts to improve safety for both truck operators and the general public.