Source: New Jersey Patch
The four people who were killed in a single-car crash in Westville over the weekend weren’t wearing seatbelts, according to police.
Westville police have issued a statement Tuesday that included new details surrounding the crash that killed 34-year-old George Ritter, his two daughters, and his niece over the weekend.
Ritter was driving the children home from a toddler’s birthday party when he crashed his 1987 Black Ford Mustang into a pole in front of the Pellegrino Chevrolet Dealership on Gateway Boulevard between 9 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Saturday night, police said.
He was ejected from the car, police said. All four people were pronounced deceased on the scene, police said. None were wearing seatbelts, according to police.
“The vehicle was modified with specialized tires and engine accessories to include a roll cage to make the vehicle specially designed to race at private racetracks,” Westville Police Chief William Whinna said. “Speed is being looked at as a contributing factor of this crash.”
Police said they are still awaiting toxicology results from Ritter.
They were on their way home from a party at the Westville Power Boat Association, which has launched an online fundraiser to help with funeral expenses.
“We want to give George and the girls, Elsie, Alivia, and Kenzie, the memorial they deserve and to honor their memory and say our last goodbyes,” the organizers wrote in a GoFundMe post. “They have touched the lives of so many, and it’s our turn to show our appreciation for George and the girls one last time. We are currently asking for donations to help cover the costs of the funeral. Any donation is extremely appreciated.”
The entire community was mourning the loss. “He was a nice guy. He always had his kids and he took them places, went out fishing,” one neighbor told CBS 3. “He was always working on people’s cars, just a good family man.”
Elsie and Alivia attended the Green-Fields School in West Deptford, NJ 101.5 reports. The school will make counselors available for students, staff, parents and members of the community.