Toms River police are actively searching for the driver of a vehicle that struck a utility pole early Monday morning, causing a power outage in the area.
The crash occurred on Cedar Grove Road near Mehar Court at approximately 5:49 a.m., according to police. Upon arrival, officers discovered a 2010 Mercury Mariner overturned near the damaged utility pole, which was blocking the road. However, the driver had fled the scene before police arrived.
Investigators say they have several leads and are working to identify the individual responsible for the crash.
The collision disrupted power in the surrounding area, but JCP&L restored service by about 9:30 a.m. Cedar Grove Road remains closed and is expected to stay shut throughout Monday while crews replace the pole and complete necessary repairs, police said.