A New Jersey police officer, John McClave III, 38, was convicted of two counts of second-degree vehicular homicide after a reckless crash that killed a couple on October 9, 2021.
What Happened
McClave, heading to his shift with the Hillside Police Department, drove his 2018 GMC Canyon pickup truck recklessly on the Garden State Parkway near Newark while under the influence of intoxicating substances. Around 7 p.m., his truck hit an embankment, went airborne, and smashed into a 2020 Toyota Corolla on Asbury Avenue below, killing driver Angel Acevedo Jr., 40, and his wife, Daniela Salles, 35. First responders from Tinton Falls Police and Wayside Fire Company pronounced the couple dead at the scene from severe injuries. McClave suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries and was treated at Jersey Shore University Medical Center.
Legal Outcome
A week-long jury trial in Ocean County Superior Court (moved due to conflict of interest) found him guilty. The Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office led the investigation. Tinton Falls Police suspended him without pay immediately; he resigned in August 2023 while awaiting trial. Sentencing is set for May 8, with up to 20 years in state prison—85% without parole under New Jersey’s No Early Release Act (NERA).
Victims’ Memory
Angel and Daniela cherished simple joys like hiking trails, family gatherings, and time with friends. Their obituary highlights their kindness, humor, and positivity, touching everyone they knew.
This case underscores the dangers of impaired driving, even for those entrusted with public safety. Similar incidents have led to stricter enforcement in states like New Jersey, where NERA applies to serious vehicular crimes.
