Voorhees Township, New Jersey – A Saturday evening walk turned deadly in Camden County after a hit-and-run crash claimed the life of a 75-year-old woman and her dog at a busy Voorhees Township intersection. Authorities say the driver initially fled the scene before returning later, leading to criminal charges.
Incident Overview
The fatal crash occurred around 6 p.m. on Saturday, January 17, 2026, near the intersection of Evesham Road and Alpha Avenue in Voorhees Township. According to investigators, a woman and her dog were struck while crossing the roadway, leaving both victims critically injured.
Emergency responders arrived quickly, but the scene quickly turned tragic.
Victim Identified
Officials identified the victim as Andrea Wilson, 75, a longtime special education teacher known in her community for her advocacy and dedication to children with special needs. Wilson was transported to a nearby hospital, where she was later pronounced dead the same evening.
Her dog, Ozzie, was pronounced dead at the scene, police confirmed.
Timeline of Events
- Saturday, Jan. 17, around 6 p.m. – Crash occurs at Evesham Road and Alpha Avenue
- Driver allegedly flees the scene
- Victim transported to hospital
- Andrea Wilson pronounced dead later that night
- Driver returns to the area in a different vehicle
- Monday – Suspect formally charged by authorities
Driver and Charges
The alleged driver has been identified as Shakira Carter, 34, of Cherry Hill, New Jersey. Authorities say Carter initially left the scene after the crash but later returned in a separate vehicle.
Carter has been charged with second-degree leaving the scene of a fatal motor vehicle accident, a serious felony offense under New Jersey law.
At the time of the incident, Carter was employed by the New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission. Officials confirmed she has been suspended pending the outcome of the case, according to information released by the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office.
Community Reaction and Memorial
In the days following the crash, neighbors gathered at the crosswalk where Wilson was struck, leaving flowers, candles, and teddy bears in her memory. The growing memorial reflects both grief and frustration from residents who say the intersection has long been dangerous.
Wilson’s family revealed that she had advocated for the installation of the crosswalk at the very location where she was killed, believing it would improve pedestrian safety.
Despite the marked crossing, residents say speeding remains a serious concern.
“It’s very scary to have children,” said Priyanka Sinha, a nearby resident who recently moved to the area. “I think the speed limit is 40 on that highway. It could have been 25 or 35, which would make it a little safer.”
Ongoing Safety Concerns
Neighbors describe Evesham Road as a high-speed corridor where vehicles often exceed posted limits. Pedestrian advocates argue that crosswalks alone are not enough and are calling for additional measures such as reduced speed limits, flashing beacons, and increased enforcement.
Traffic safety experts note that pedestrian survival rates drop sharply when vehicles travel above 30 mph, underscoring the danger of higher-speed roads in residential areas.
Police Investigation Continues
Investigators are continuing to review evidence, including vehicle damage and witness statements. Authorities are asking anyone who may have seen the crash or has relevant information to contact the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office at 856-225-8083.
Conclusion
The death of Andrea Wilson and her dog Ozzie has left a Voorhees Township neighborhood mourning while raising renewed concerns about pedestrian safety and accountability on busy roadways. As the legal process moves forward, residents hope the tragedy leads to meaningful changes that prevent future loss of life.
If you have information about this incident or concerns about traffic safety in your area, speak up and stay involved. Share your experiences in the comments below.
