DWI South Toms River Truck Driver Charged After Killing Pedestrian, Leaving Scene: Prosecutor

Authorities said Monday, Aug. 11, that a 41-year-old man from South Toms River is charged with vehicular murder after he hit a person and fled the scene while under the influence of marijuana.

Haskins, Tremaine

When South Toms River police arrived at Colgate Drive at 3:50 a.m. on Saturday, June 7, they discovered Marie Bellavista, 53, dead in the street, according to Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer.

Tremel Haskins struck Bellavista while driving the cab of a Volvo semi-truck, according to the results of an inquiry, Billhimer said. According to Billhimer, Haskins ran from the scene but was eventually found at the Walmart on Route 37 in Toms River.

According to Billhimer, Haskins was initially accused of reckless driving and driving while inebriated.

Police confiscated a.38 caliber Colt pistol after searching Haskins’ Volvo pickup, according to Billhimer. Additional charges were brought against Haskins because of his two previous convictions for distributing drugs, which prohibited him from possessing a firearm, according to Billhimer.

According to Billhimer, a blood test revealed that Haskins was using marijuana at the time of the collision and was therefore unable to drive a car safely.

According to Billhimer, Haskins was arrested on Monday, August 11 and is currently being held at the Ocean County Jail while he awaits a detention hearing.