New Jersey woman charged in fatal e-bike crash

A 65-year-old Pine Hill woman, Deborah Carey, has been charged with second-degree reckless death by auto following a fatal crash in Lindenwold, New Jersey. The incident occurred on a Saturday night in the 1900 block of Laurel Road.

According to investigators, Carey was driving a 2022 Nissan Rogue when the vehicle swerved into the path of 46-year-old Erica Beeks, who was riding an e-bike. The collision struck both the e-bike and a utility pole, causing Beeks to die at the scene. Beeks' boyfriend, who was riding an e-bike approximately 10 to 20 feet behind her, witnessed the vehicle swerve from the left side into their path.

Police reported that Carey exhibited signs of intoxication, including slurred speech, incoherent behavior, and the smell of alcohol on her breath. In addition to the death by auto charge, Carey faces multiple citations, including driving under the influence (DUI). Investigators are currently awaiting blood sample results as the case proceeds toward a detention hearing.