Baruch Dayan HaEmes
Tragedy Strikes Lakewood: 19-Year-Old Elchonon Fasten Z"L Killed in Garden State Parkway Crash
Elchonon Fasten z"l, a 19-year-old yeshiva student, was tragically killed in a severe car crash and fire on the Garden State Parkway near Old Bridge while traveling back to Lakewood, sending shockwaves through his community.
The community of Lakewood, New Jersey, is mourning the tragic passing of Elchonon Fasten z"l, a 19-year-old yeshiva student, who was killed early this morning following a severe car crash and subsequent fire on the Garden State Parkway. The accident occurred near Exit 120 in the Old Bridge area.
Mr. Fasten, a cherished bachur (unmarried male student) from the Lakewood community, was reportedly driving back to Lakewood from Boro Park when the devastating accident took place. The news of his passing has sent waves of grief through the community that knew and loved him.
Crash Details and Community Response
Details released indicate the crash was a serious collision that led to the vehicle catching fire, resulting in the fatality of the young man.
Immediately following the tragedy, community activists (Askanim) quickly engaged with state and local authorities. Their primary focus was ensuring the process adhered to Jewish law, specifically guaranteeing kavod hameis (respect for the deceased) throughout the investigation and recovery. This vital coordination is often necessary in such severe traffic incidents to ensure religious sensitivities are honored.
The term "Baruch Dayan HaEmes" (Blessed is the True Judge), a traditional Jewish response upon hearing tragic news, was shared throughout the community in response to the devastating loss.
The niftar (the deceased) was a dedicated student, and his passing leaves a profound void. Efforts are currently underway to confirm all logistical details for the funeral proceedings (Levaya).
The community awaits further instructions, which will be released once finalized. The message concludes with the customary blessing, "Besuros Tovos" (Good tidings), wishing for a future without such sorrow.