Alleged Drunk Driver Crashes Into Manchester Home

By Alyssa Riccardi

MANCHESTER – AToms River man has been arrested after crashing into a mailbox, utility pole and house as the result of being intoxicated, police said. The incident occurred around 9:50 a.m. on February 8 in the area of Route 571, near the border of Jackson Township.

According to police, 48-year-old Scott Skweres of Toms River was driving east of on Route 571 in a 2006 Lincoln Town Car when he swerved off the roadway onto the eastbound shoulder and hit a mailbox and a utility pole. He then traveled across Route 571, left the roadway and struck the house.

An eyewitness told police that the car was seen swerving in and out of the lane of travel moments before the crash occurred.

Skweres sustained minor injuries. He refused further medical attention after being evaluated by EMTs from the Manchester Division of Emergency Services, police said.

After investigating the crash, authorities suspect Skweres of driving while intoxicated. He was subsequently arrested and transported to Manchester Police Headquarters where he was processed and released pending court.

Route 571 between Route 547 and Whitecomb Avenue in Jackson Township were closed in both directions while repairs were being made, police said.

Assisting at the scene were EMTs and firefighters from the Manchester Township Division of Emergency Services, firefighters from the Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Department, and the Manchester Township Building Inspector.

The investigation into this crash is still ongoing. This crash is being investigated by Ptl. Michael O’Hara of the department’s Traffic Safety section and K-9 Officer Steven Wendruff. Charges are merely accusations until proven in a court of law.