Ursula Keating, 56, of Toms River, New Jersey, died Saturday after a vehicle crashed into the outdoor dining area of a restaurant in Lavallette.
The incident happened at approximately 11:12 a.m. on September 19 at Meg’s Grill on Grand Central Avenue, according to Lavallette Police.
Police said a 93-year-old Lavallette woman was attempting to park a 2014 Buick Encore in front of the restaurant when she apparently pressed the accelerator instead of the brake.
The SUV accelerated into the restaurant’s outdoor dining area before crashing into the building.
Ursula Keating suffered fatal injuries in the crash. Seven other patrons were injured and transported to area hospitals for treatment. The driver also suffered minor injuries.
Keating was identified as the wife of John Keating, chief of the Silverton Volunteer Fire Company in Toms River and a longtime firefighter, EMT, and retired police officer.
News of her death prompted condolences from local fire departments and emergency service organizations. Meg’s Grill also expressed condolences to Keating’s husband and their two children.
The crash remains under investigation. Authorities have not announced charges against the driver.
For Ursula’s family and the communities she was connected to, her death has brought sudden grief following an ordinary morning that ended in tragedy.
Those who knew her are now remembering her life and the place she held within her family and community.
