A fatal collision occurred Tuesday afternoon when a sport utility vehicle crashed through the front of a Planet Fitness gym on Newark Avenue, resulting in one patron’s death and injuries to three employees and the driver.
The collision occurred at approximately 12:20 p.m. on August 26, 2025, when a maroon Jeep driven by a 69-year-old woman mounted the curb and shattered the large front windows of the fitness center located at 647 Newark Avenue.
Witnesses described the vehicle striking the building with significant force, penetrating deep into the workout area. The exact cause of the crash remains under investigation by Elizabeth police and emergency responders who were dispatched to the scene immediately following reports of the incident.
The crash claimed the life of a 72-year-old man who was exercising near the front windows of the facility. He was pronounced dead at University Hospital shortly after 2:00 p.m. Additionally, three gym employees sustained various injuries and were transported to area hospitals for treatment.
The 69-year-old female driver also suffered injuries, primarily from airbag deployment, and received medical attention.
Among the injured was a 59-year-old man using a treadmill near the impact zone who sustained cuts and abrasions. All victims were transported via EMS to nearby medical facilities, with one reported to be in life-threatening condition according to preliminary information from authorities.
First responders, including Elizabeth police, fire personnel, and emergency medical units, arrived within minutes of the incident. The area was immediately cordoned off with police tape as investigators documented the scene and emergency workers stabilized the structure.
The SUV was eventually extracted from the building shortly before 5:00 p.m. and taken for evidence examination. The gym sustained significant structural damage to its facade and interior areas adjacent to the entrance.
The building housing the Planet Fitness location suffered substantial structural damage, according to officials examining the premises.
Elizabeth’s building department has determined the facility will remain closed until further notice while repairs are made and safety assessments are completed.
The crash affected an area of the gym containing free weights, treadmills, and a seating area near the front windows. Crews boarded up the damaged sections of the building on Tuesday evening to secure the property.
As of Tuesday evening, no charges have been filed against the driver, with authorities indicating the investigation remains active and ongoing. Police have stated that all parties are cooperating with the investigation while evidence is collected from both the vehicle and the crash scene.
Gym members expressed shock at the incident.
Richard Whitfield, a regular patron, noted that he typically sat right there on the ledge where the windows are to drink his post-workout Muscle Milk, highlighting the random nature of the tragedy.
Another member who asked not to be identified stated, “Kind of like shocking to me because I always work out over there. I’m extremely upset that that happened.”
A spokesperson for Planet Fitness issued a statement reading: “The safety of our employees, members, and guests is a top priority, and we are extremely saddened by this tragic accident and loss of life.”
The company has not provided additional details about when the facility might reopen or how members will be accommodated during the closure.
Local officials have confirmed they are investigating all aspects of the incident but have not released information about potential contributing factors such as mechanical failure, driver medical issues, or environmental conditions.