NJ News Updates – January 2, 2026

January 2, 2026

Police are investigating a road rage incident in Lakewood that left a man injured. The victim stopped to let pedestrians cross near First Street and Clifton Avenue, when his car was hit from behind. He was beaten when he got out to speak with the other driver.

A man from Manahawkin was sentenced to six to twelve years in prison for sexually assaulting an unconscious woman at his Pennsyvlania apartment in 2024. 29-year-old Bryan Stackhouse was found guilty in Bucks County, back in July.

The Peapack & Gladstone branch of the Somerset County Library System of New Jersey will officially reopen on Monday. The branch had been closed for renovations. A grand reopening party will be held on Saturday, January 24th.

Community members in Jackson Township gathered at Westlake Court, as the street was renamed to honor Michael Gioia. Gioia died in a car crash when he was just 16 years old.

About the Author

Sean Thrunk
Producer

Sean Thrunk is an award-winning multi-media journalist and graduate of Montclair State University.
He serves as ONNJ’s main editor and as a news producer for ONNJ Mornings with Ken Rosato!