NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Ridgefield Park, NJ, May 20, 2026 — A dramatic late-night crash on Route 80 ended with an SUV plunging into the Hackensack River and its driver allegedly fleeing the scene before being arrested, according to New Jersey State Police.
Authorities said Zorawar S. Kohli, 32, of Englewood Cliffs, has been charged with assault by auto, resisting arrest by flight, obstruction, and multiple motor vehicle violations following the incident.
The crash occurred on eastbound Route 80 near milepost 66.9 on the Hackensack River Bridge on the night of May 18, police said. Investigators said Kohli was driving a BMW SUV involved in a collision with a Land Rover SUV before the BMW veered off course, breached a concrete barrier, and plunged into the river below.
Police said Kohli escaped from the submerged vehicle but allegedly did not remain at the scene. Instead, authorities say he fled on foot.
After a search, police located Kohli underneath a nearby train and took him into custody.
The occupants of the Land Rover — a driver and passenger — suffered minor injuries and were transported to a local hospital for treatment. No other injuries were reported.
Kohli was charged with two counts of assault by auto, fourth-degree resisting arrest by flight, and fourth-degree obstruction, according to authorities.
Under New Jersey law, assault by auto charges can be filed when injuries are allegedly caused through reckless or negligent operation of a vehicle and do not necessarily indicate an intent to cause harm.
Police said Kohli was released pending a future court appearance. The crash remains under investigation, and authorities have not released additional details about what may have caused the collision.
