The Howell Township Police Department investigated a serious motor vehicle crash that occurred on February 15, 2019 at approximately 4:15 pm on Manassa Road by Norse Road.

A 2016 gray Toyota Avalon operated by 62 year old Howell resident Lawrence Cohen drove into oncoming traffic lane and struck a Howell Twp. Police Department Police vehicle head-on. The police vehicle was operated by Patrolman John Woolley. Mr. Cohen sustained minor injuries to include a laceration to his face. Patrolman Wooley sustained what appears to be a significant injury to his foot and lacerations to his face.

Both were transported to Jersey Shore University Medical Center for further evaluation.

This afternoon, February 16th, Ptlm. Woolley was released from the hospital.

The Howell Twp Police, Howell Twp Police Department EMS Unit, Farmingdale First Aid Squad, MONOC Paramedics and the Squankum Fire Dept responded to the scene.

At this time, the cause of the collision is still under investigation. At a minimum, Mr. Cohen will be charged with Failure to Maintain a Lane. Toxicology tests are pending. He consented to having his blood drawn. The investigation at this point has not revealed he was impaired from drugs or alcohol nor do we believe so. At the scene, he could not explain why he crossed into the oncoming traffic lane.

“We thank those who came over from the reservoir to assist Mr. Cohen and Ptlm Woolley,” police said.