Accident – Drunk Driver Crashes Into New Jersey Preschool Entrance
Accident – A frightening collision outside a preschool in Freehold Township, New Jersey, left a mother and her two young sons injured after an SUV struck the school’s entrance Friday afternoon, according to local authorities.
Crash Outside Bloom Academy
The incident occurred shortly before 3 p.m. at Bloom Academy in Monmouth County. Patrice Pisani had just exited the building with her two minor sons when a gray sport utility vehicle veered toward the entrance area.
Police said the vehicle, driven by a woman who had arrived to pick up a child, crashed into a gate pillar near the front door. The impact happened in a matter of seconds, turning what should have been a routine school pickup into a chaotic scene.
Surveillance Footage Captures the Impact
Security cameras positioned outside the preschool recorded the moment of the crash. The footage, which has since circulated online, shows Pisani attempting to pull one of her children out of harm’s way as the SUV sped toward them.
Despite her efforts, the side of the vehicle struck the family. One of the boys was knocked to the ground, and the SUV’s tire reportedly rolled over part of his leg before the vehicle continued forward. The force of the crash pushed Pisani and her older son backward, pinning them briefly against a railing near the entrance.
Witnesses described the situation as terrifying, with parents and staff rushing to help immediately after the collision.
Injuries and Medical Treatment
Pisani later told local media that her younger son sustained injuries to his leg along with burns believed to have been caused by contact with the underside of the vehicle. She suffered back and neck injuries, while her older son experienced less serious harm.
Emergency responders transported all three to a nearby hospital for evaluation and treatment. Authorities confirmed they were later discharged.
School officials have not reported additional injuries among other students or staff members present at the time.
Driver Charged in Connection With Crash
Freehold Township police identified the driver as 68-year-old Angela Arrigo of Manalapan. According to investigators, Arrigo was taken into custody following the crash.
She has been charged with driving while intoxicated, assault by auto, and endangering the welfare of a child. Law enforcement officials said the investigation remains ongoing.
Police have not released further details regarding the circumstances leading up to the crash, including how the vehicle came to accelerate toward the school entrance.
Community Reaction and Safety Concerns
The crash has raised concerns among parents about traffic safety around school zones, particularly during busy pickup hours. Although the physical injuries were not life-threatening, many families expressed shock at how quickly the situation unfolded.
Bloom Academy has not issued a detailed public statement but is expected to review safety protocols following the incident. Local officials also indicated that standard procedures for school zone traffic enforcement will continue as the case moves through the legal system.
Authorities are urging drivers to exercise caution, especially near schools and childcare centers where young children are present.
The charges against Arrigo are pending in court, and no additional information has been made public regarding her legal representation.