Motorcyclists seriously injured in Stafford Township crash

Two motorcyclists are hospitalized after crashing into a pickup truck in Stafford Township, and investigators seek witnesses who can add details to their probe.

Ryan Johnson, 23, of Manahawkin, and Anthony Coon, 27, of West Creek, sustained internal injuries in the crash on Route 9 at about 8:50 PM Wednesday, according to township police.

Investigators said that Johnson and Coon were southbound on Route 9, approaching Oxycocus Elementary School, while Joseph Zargo, 20, of Monroe Township, neared the school on the opposited side of the highway.

Zargo initiated a left turn, across the southbound lane, to enter the school's parking lot. The motorcycles crashed into the pickup's passenger side, police said. Traffic was detoured for about two hours.

Coon's injuries were deemed significant enough to summon a helicopter, that flew him to Atlanticare Trauma Center in Atlantic City. Johnson was rushed to Southern Ocean Medical Center in Manahawkin.

Police said that Zargo was uninjured. He was issued a careless-driving summons, but the incident remains under investigation.

Information can be given to Patrolman Jillson, 609-597-8581, extension 8446.