20-Year-Old Toms River Man Brian Fort Killed in Garden State Parkway Crash; Passenger Seriously Injured

A tragic single-vehicle crash on the Garden State Parkway in Ocean County claimed the life of 20-year-old Brian Fort, of Toms River, and left his passenger seriously injured early Sunday morning.

According to New Jersey State Police, the accident occurred around 6 a.m. on December 21 near milepost 73 in Lacey Township, just south of Exit 74 by County Route 614. Authorities report that Fort was traveling northbound in an Infiniti passenger car when the vehicle ran off the roadway to the right, went down an embankment, struck multiple trees, and overturned. Both Fort and his 22-year-old passenger, Errol Jeffrey, were ejected from the car. Fort was pronounced dead at the scene, while Jeffrey was hospitalized with serious injuries.

The crash remains under investigation, and police have not released additional details at this time.

In the wake of the tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign was created to support the Fort family with funeral and memorial expenses. Organizer Cecilia Fort shared:

"On December 21st, 2025, our family experienced an unimaginable tragedy when our younger brother, son, and amazing friend to all, Brian Fort, was taken from us in a fatal car accident. He was only 20 years young, and his bright spirit, kindness, and laughter touched everyone who knew him."

The fundraiser seeks $11,000 to help cover funeral and memorial costs. Cecilia Fort added, "We would be incredibly grateful for any support you can provide—whether through a donation, sharing this page, or keeping our family in your thoughts and prayers. Every contribution goes directly toward covering funeral expenses, memorial services, and helping our family give Brian the beautiful farewell he deserves."