HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, N.J. — A late-morning crash on Harding Highway turned deadly on Monday after an elderly driver lost control of his vehicle and struck several trees. The single-vehicle accident claimed the life of an 83-year-old man and led to traffic delays as emergency crews responded and investigators worked to determine what went wrong.

According to the Township of Hamilton Police Department, officers were dispatched around 11:40 a.m. on Monday, January 5, 2025, to Harding Highway, also known as U.S. Route 40, near the area of Nineteenth Street. The call reported a serious motor vehicle crash involving one vehicle that had left the roadway.

Police said a 2020 Cadillac Escalade was traveling westbound on Harding Highway when it veered off the road for reasons that are still under investigation. The vehicle then collided with multiple trees along the roadside, causing heavy damage. First responders arrived to find the driver seriously injured inside the vehicle.

The driver was identified as Leonard Spaeth Jr., 83, of Mays Landing. He was transported by emergency medical personnel to a nearby hospital for treatment. Despite life-saving efforts, Spaeth later died from his injuries. His death has left loved ones grieving and added to growing concerns about roadway safety.

Traffic along Harding Highway was significantly affected following the crash. Police diverted vehicles for approximately two hours to allow emergency responders to assist the victim and investigators to document the scene. Crews worked to clear debris and ensure the roadway was safe before reopening it to drivers.

Several agencies assisted at the scene, including the Township of Hamilton Rescue Squad, AtlantiCare Paramedics, the Mays Landing and Laureldale Fire Departments, and the Atlantic County Sheriff’s Office. The Township of Hamilton Police Department Traffic Unit continues to investigate the crash. Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information is asked to contact Officer McKnight at 609-625-2700.