Tony Gilliam, 54, of Jonesboro, Georgia, was reported to have died following a highway incident on Interstate 78 westbound in Newark, New Jersey, on Thursday morning, October 8, 2026.
According to the account attributed to New Jersey State Police, troopers responded to the scene at approximately 9:34 a.m. Preliminary information indicates that Gilliam had pulled his Ram pickup truck onto the right shoulder and stepped outside the vehicle.
While he was near the roadway, a Honda passenger vehicle reportedly left the travel lanes, struck Gilliam, and continued into his parked truck. Gilliam sustained fatal injuries, according to the report. No other injuries were reported in the supplied account.
The incident has drawn attention to the risks faced by motorists who must leave their vehicles near active traffic lanes. Highway shoulders can be dangerous, particularly when passing vehicles unexpectedly move out of their lanes.
Gilliam was identified in the report as a resident of Jonesboro, Georgia. Further verified information about his personal life, family, career, and interests was not included in the supplied account. Those who knew him personally are best placed to share memories of his life and the relationships that mattered to him.
The circumstances leading to the collision have not been fully established in the information provided. Any findings about why the Honda left the roadway or whether additional factors contributed to the incident should be based on official investigative updates.
The sudden loss of a loved one can be difficult for family members, friends, and others who shared important moments with them. During such times, community support and the sharing of meaningful memories may provide comfort to those affected.
Readers are encouraged to follow verified updates from New Jersey State Police for further information about the incident and its investigation.
Anchor News extends its condolences to Tony Gilliam’s family, friends, and loved ones following the reported loss. May they find support and comfort as they remember his life.
