Varlee Kamara Death and Obituary – Varlee Kamara, a 37-year-old resident of Newark, New Jersey, was tragically killed in a wrong-way crash on the New Jersey Turnpike on Thursday night, January 29, 2026. The fatal collision occurred near Mount Laurel and prompted a major emergency response as state authorities began investigating the circumstances that led to the deadly incident.
According to the New Jersey State Police, the crash happened at approximately 9:00 p.m. when Kamara was driving his SUV southbound in the northbound lanes of the Turnpike. The wrong-way travel occurred near milepost 39.6, between exits 4 and 5, an area that sees heavy traffic during evening hours. Investigators confirmed that Kamara’s vehicle had crossed over from the southbound side into the northbound lanes, though it remains unclear how or where that maneuver occurred.
While traveling in the incorrect direction, Kamara’s SUV collided head-on with a box truck that was properly traveling northbound. The impact of the crash was severe, causing catastrophic damage to the SUV. Emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene, but Kamara was pronounced dead at the location due to the extent of his injuries. No other fatalities were reported.
The driver of the box truck sustained only minor injuries and was treated at the scene. Authorities did not release the driver’s name, and no charges have been announced at this time. Traffic in the area was significantly disrupted for several hours as police conducted an on-site investigation and crews worked to clear the wreckage from the roadway.
State Police officials stated that they are continuing to investigate how long Kamara had been driving the wrong way before the crash and what factors may have contributed to the incident. At this stage, it has not been determined whether impairment, confusion, mechanical failure, or another cause played a role. Officials are reviewing roadway footage, witness statements, and physical evidence from the scene to better understand the sequence of events.
Wrong-way crashes, while relatively rare, are often among the most dangerous types of roadway accidents due to the high speeds involved and the reduced reaction time for drivers traveling in the correct direction. Law enforcement agencies continue to emphasize the importance of roadway awareness, proper signage, and immediate reporting when motorists observe vehicles traveling against traffic.
Kamara’s death has left family members, friends, and the Newark community grieving a sudden and devastating loss. Authorities have not yet released information regarding funeral arrangements or memorial services. As the investigation continues, state officials urge anyone who may have witnessed the incident or observed a wrong-way vehicle in the area prior to the crash to contact New Jersey State Police.