Three individuals tragically lost their lives in a horrific and fiery crash that occurred in South Brunswick, New Jersey on Friday morning, according to authorities. The incident involved a collision between a tractor-trailer and a van carrying developmentally disabled adults, which took place on Route 1 at Ridge Road shortly after 9:30 a.m.

Upon arrival, emergency responders were met with a scene of intense flames, making it impossible to save those inside the minivan. The three occupants of the van, including the driver and two passengers, tragically perished in the fire. The impact of the collision was so significant that it pushed the van approximately 200 yards from the intersection.

The driver of the tractor-trailer managed to survive the crash, sustaining mainly minor injuries. They received medical treatment for their wounds. The van involved in the incident was operated by Community Options, a Princeton-based organization specializing in housing and employment assistance for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities.

Robert Stack, a spokesperson for Community Options, expressed deep sorrow and condolences for those affected by the tragedy. "Our heart goes out to the two people with severe disabilities who we have supported and to the staff person. Our prayers are with the families and all of their loved ones. We are crestfallen and deeply saddened," he stated.

South Brunswick Police Chief Raymond Hayducka also issued a statement, acknowledging the devastating loss of life in the crash. "Today has been a tragic day with three lives lost in this terrible crash. My heart goes out to the families and friends. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers," Chief Hayducka said.

In the wake of the accident, the northbound lanes of Route 1 remained closed throughout the day. Investigators, along with accident reconstruction teams, were painstakingly examining the wreckage and reviewing surveillance footage to determine the cause of the collision. The medical examiner will soon remove the victims, and the cleanup operation is expected to continue until 9 p.m.

Motorists have been advised to avoid the area, as Route 1 at the intersection of Ridge Road remains closed. As an alternate travel route, police are recommending drivers to use Route 27 and Route 130.

Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the crash to come forward. Officer Bryan Sites of the South Brunswick Police Department can be contacted at 732-329- 4646, while Sergeant Jonathan Berman of the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office can be reached at (732) 745-4328.

Please note that an earlier version of this story initially stated that the minivan was carrying senior citizens based on preliminary information from the police.