After crash that killed NJ teen, illegal teen driver is charged

PITTSGROVE — A teenager who was illegally driving during a crash that killed a 15-year-old passenger this spring now faces criminal charges.

The 16-year-old was charged on May 31 with aggravated manslaughter and vehicular homicide stemming from the death of Evan D'Anjou, according to State Police.

Police were called to the scene on May 4 after a Kia Optima with the two teens crashed into a tree near Deer Pen Park, at the intersection of McKishen Road and Buck Road in Pittsgrove.

Within two weeks after the crash, an adult was charged with allowing the unlicensed teen to use her car, as reported by NJ.com.

Tisha Gargon, 50, of Pittsgrove, was charged with two counts of endangering the welfare of a child, according to an affidavit of probable cause cited in the report.

A criminal complaint said Gargon gave the teen “permission to access and drive the vehicle” on May 3.

Due to the teen’s age, identity has not been disclosed.

D'Anjou was a sophomore at Schalick High School at the time of his death.

He was also "an avid motocross enthusiast whose love of riding began at age 4," according to his obituary, which said that Field of Dreams Motocross Track was his "home away from home."

Erin Vogt is a reporter and anchor for New Jersey 101.5. You can reach her at erin.vogt@townsquaremedia.com

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These are the best hiking spots in New Jersey

A trip to New Jersey doesn't have to be all about the beach. Our state has some incredible trails, waterfalls, and lakes to enjoy.

From the Pine Barrens to the Appalachian Trail to the hidden gems of New Jersey, you have plenty of options for a great hike. Hiking is such a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature, plus it's a great workout.

Before you go out on the trails and explore some of our listeners' suggestions, I have some tips on hiking etiquette from the American Hiking Society.

If you are going downhill and run into an uphill hiker, step to the side and give the uphill hiker space. A hiker going uphill has the right of way unless they stop to catch their breath.

Always stay on the trail, you may see side paths, unless they are marked as an official trail, steer clear of them. By going off-trail you may cause damage to the ecosystems around the trail, the plants, and wildlife that live there.

You also do not want to disturb the wildlife you encounter, just keep your distance from the wildlife and continue hiking.

Bicyclists should yield to hikers and horses. Hikers should also yield to horses, but I’m not sure how many horses you will encounter on the trails in New Jersey.

If you are thinking of bringing your dog on your hike, they should be leashed, and make sure to clean up all pet waste.

Lastly, be mindful of the weather, if the trail is too muddy, it's probably best to save your hike for another day.

I asked our listeners for their suggestions of the best hiking spots in New Jersey, check out their suggestions: