Lavon Cooley
Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II and Newark Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda today announced an arrest in a fatal hit and run accident that killed a woman in Newark earlier this year.
On Saturday April 26, at approximately 4:30pm, Newark police officers discovered the victim identified as Margie Reyes, 53, lying in the street near 733 Frelinghuysen. The victim was transported to University Hospital where she was pronounced dead a short time later. Doctors confirmed that her injuries were consistent with being struck by a motor vehicle.
An extensive investigation by Essex County Prosecutor’s Crime Scene Investigation Bureau recovered multiple pieces of evidence that ultimately led them to the suspect.
On August 5, Lavon Cooley, 36 of Newark was taken into custody by US Marshals Task Force. Cooley is charged with second-degree leaving the scene of a motor vehicle crash, third-degree causing death while driving with a suspended license, third-degree endangering an injured victim, and third-degree possession of a dangerous controlled substance.
Preliminary information suggests the victim may have been unhoused at the time of her death, and efforts to locate her family have been unsuccessful. The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office is asking for the public’s help in finding next of kin or anyone who may have known her.
Anyone with information about Margie Reyes or this case is asked to contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office tips line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC or 1-877-847-7432. All calls will be kept confidential.
These allegations are merely accusations. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until they enter a guilty plea or are found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
