ATV rider arrested after gas leak prompts Atlantic City neighborhood evacuation

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ — On the evening of August 26, 2024, an Atlantic City neighborhood was evacuated after an ATV rider struck a gas meter, causing a dangerous gas leak. The incident, which occurred in the first block of North Morris Avenue, resulted in the arrest of rider Laron Wright, 31, of Atlantic City.

At approximately 7:49 p.m., patrol officers responded to reports of an all-terrain vehicle accident. When they arrived at the scene, they noticed a strong odor of natural gas, prompting an immediate evacuation of residents. The Atlantic City Fire Department and South Jersey Gas were called to repair the leak and secure the area.

The investigation revealed that Wright was driving through an alley when he lost control of his ATV and struck both a gas meter and a parked vehicle. The collision caused a gas leak that took nearly two hours to repair, during which time residents were unable to return to their homes.

Wright was arrested at the scene and his ATV was confiscated. He is charged with reckless endangerment of serious injury or damage and disorderly conduct. Wright was released on a summons and is expected to appear in court at a later date.

SHALER, Pennsylvania. — A bicyclist is in critical condition after being struck by a car in Shaler early Thursday morning. The incident occurred at approximately 4:50 a.m. in the 1700 block of William Flynn Highway.

Allegheny County 9-1-1 received a report of the accident, and the Allegheny County Police Department’s Homicide and Accident Reconstruction Unit responded. According to authorities, the victim, an adult male, was crossing William Flynn Highway when he was struck by a motor vehicle.

The injured cyclist was taken to a nearby hospital where he remains in critical condition. Detectives have launched an investigation into the circumstances of the incident.

According to police, the driver of the vehicle remained at the scene.

WILDWOOD, NJ — As summer draws to a close, fishing enthusiasts flock to the Wildwoods in September for a series of surf fishing competitions. Known for its scenic views and numerous fishing spots, the five-mile beach remains a popular destination for anglers year-round.

The Wildwoods offer a variety of surf fishing locations, including the Back Bay, docks and road ends, and the beaches along Hereford Inlet in North Wildwood. This September, two major competitions will bring both experienced and amateur anglers together to cast their lines and compete.

The North Wildwood Recreation Department’s surf fishing competition will be held Sept. 6-8. Registration for the event will be at the Gazebo on the corner of 3rd and JFK Blvd. in North Wildwood. The entry fee is $15. The tournament will be held Friday and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. Awards for the adult and youth divisions will be presented at noon on Sunday. For more information, visit www.NorthWildwood.com or call 609-522-2955.

Later in the month, the Pennsauken Surf Fishing Club will host its 69th Annual Surf Fishing Tournament on Saturday, September 28. The competition is open to both teams and individuals, with an entry fee of $75 for teams and $20 for individuals. For more information, interested participants can contact Pam Thompson at [email protected] or visit www.ASAConline.org.