A New Year’s morning drive ended in tragedy after a 31-year-old woman lost her life in a violent crash on the Garden State Parkway in Middlesex County. New Jersey State Police say the deadly accident happened in the early hours of the holiday, leaving a family and community in mourning as 2026 began.
According to authorities, the crash occurred at approximately 3:35 a.m. in the northbound lanes of the Garden State Parkway near milepost 127.9 in Woodbridge. Tiara Muhammad, of Barnegat, was driving a Chevrolet SUV when her vehicle struck a bullnose divider that separates the northbound local and express lanes. The impact was severe and caused the vehicle to lose control.
State Police said the force of the crash caused Muhammad to be ejected from the SUV. She suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. No other vehicles were reported to be involved in the crash, and no additional injuries were immediately reported by authorities.
Trooper II Christopher Postorino of the New Jersey State Police confirmed the details of the incident and said the investigation remains ongoing. At this time, police have not released information about what may have caused the crash, including whether speed, road conditions, or impairment played a role. Officials also did not say whether Muhammad was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.
The tragic incident serves as a painful reminder of the dangers drivers face on the roads, especially during late-night and early-morning hours on holidays. Traffic tends to be lighter during these times, but higher speeds and fatigue can increase the risk of deadly accidents. Law enforcement continues to urge drivers to slow down, stay alert, and always wear seat belts.
As investigators work to determine the exact cause of the crash, family members, friends, and loved ones are left grieving the sudden loss of a young woman whose life was cut short. New Jersey State Police say more information may be released as the investigation continues. Anyone with information related to the crash is encouraged to contact authorities.
