Updated: Car Loses Control, Hits Tree at Elizabeth Park

Updated: 12/30/13 5:30 a.m. -- adds photo, police comment

Two people were taken to hospital Thursday after their vehicle crashed into a tree around 2:30 p.m. at Elizabeth Park, officials said.

Trenton Fire Chief Jeff Evans said that because the vehicle, a 1995 Ford Escort, was so mangled, the fire department had to use the hydraulic rescue tool, “Jaws of Life,” to cut the vehicle open and remove the occupant.

Despite earlier reports, weather was not a factor in the accident, police said.  

Officer Aaron Biniarz, a crash reconstructionist, said the vehicle was heading north on West Jefferson and traveling at about 60 mph, in a 35-mph zone, when it veered off the road and struck a tree.

“It was dry at the time of the crash. It wasn’t snowing until after the accident,” Biniarz said.

“The passenger suffered serious internal injuries and multiple broken bones,” the officer said. “The driver was not seriously injured, and a female passenger in the backseat was treated and released at the scene.”

Police do not think alcohol was related, but said the driver made comments about being intoxicated, possibly on prescription drugs. "Statements he later retracted," Biniarz said.

Pending blood results, the driver could face charges of operating while intoxicated causing serious injury, or reckless driving, Biniarz said.  

“The blood results will not be available for six to eight months,” he said.  

All three occupants involved in the crash were in their mid 20’s, the officer said. 

No pedestrians were reported injured.