Chase Yoachum death: Grieving mother remembers 13-year-old son killed in Middle Township, NJ crash – 6abc Philadelphia

Report on Fatal Traffic Accident in Middle Township, New Jersey

Incident Overview

On Monday morning, a tragic traffic accident occurred at the Jersey Shore in Middle Township, New Jersey, resulting in the death of 13-year-old Chase Yoachum and serious injuries to his father, Michael Yoachum. The family was returning home to Deptford after a weekend camping trip when their vehicle was struck by another driver attempting to pass on the northbound lanes of Court House-South Dennis Road.

Impact on Family and Community

Colleen Yoachum, mother of the deceased, expressed profound grief and emphasized the emotional toll of losing a child. She stated, “No parent should ever have to bury their child.” The Deptford Township School District superintendent described Chase as a beloved son, brother, friend, classmate, teammate, Boy Scout, and a kind soul, whose loss is deeply felt by the community.

Details of the Accident

1. The 26-year-old driver entered the northbound lanes to pass another vehicle.
2. The driver collided with Michael Yoachum’s vehicle carrying Chase.
3. Emergency services responded promptly; Chase was pronounced dead at the hospital.
4. Michael Yoachum was airlifted to a hospital, suffered multiple fractures, and is currently recovering.

Ongoing Investigation

• Middle Township police continue to investigate the circumstances of the crash.
• No charges have been announced at this time.
• A vigil is scheduled for July 8 at the Cattell Complex in Wenonah to honor Chase’s memory.

Emphasis on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

This tragic event highlights the critical importance of road safety and emergency medical response systems to ensure the health and well-being of all individuals. Efforts to improve traffic regulations, driver education, and emergency care align with SDG 3’s objective to reduce premature mortality from road traffic accidents.

SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

Enhancing road safety infrastructure and promoting safe transportation methods contribute to building resilient and sustainable communities. The accident underscores the need for safer road designs and traffic management to protect vulnerable populations, including children.

SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

The ongoing investigation by local authorities reflects the commitment to justice and accountability, essential components of SDG 16. Transparent legal processes and enforcement of traffic laws are vital to prevent future incidents and maintain public trust.

SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

Community support, including the planned vigil and school district involvement, demonstrates the power of partnerships in fostering social cohesion and collective healing. Collaboration among families, schools, law enforcement, and health services is crucial to advancing sustainable development and community resilience.

Conclusion

The fatal crash in Middle Township is a somber reminder of the ongoing challenges in ensuring road safety and protecting lives. It calls for strengthened efforts aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals to promote health, safety, justice, and community well-being. The memory of Chase Yoachum continues to inspire the community’s commitment to these goals.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – The article discusses a fatal road crash resulting in the death of a child and serious injury to an adult, highlighting issues related to health, safety, and emergency medical response.
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – The crash occurred on public roads, pointing to concerns about road safety, traffic management, and safe infrastructure in communities.
3. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions – The article mentions police investigation and potential legal actions, relating to justice and institutional response to accidents and public safety.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 3 Targets:
   • Target 3.6: By 2020, halve the number of global deaths and injuries from road traffic accidents.
   • Target 3.8: Achieve universal health coverage, including access to quality essential health-care services and emergency care.
2. SDG 11 Targets:
   • Target 11.2: By 2030, provide access to safe, affordable, accessible and sustainable transport systems for all, improving road safety.
3. SDG 16 Targets:
   • Target 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all.
   • Target 16.6: Develop effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. For SDG 3.6: Number of deaths and injuries from road traffic accidents.
   • The article reports a fatality and serious injury from a road crash, implying the use of such data to monitor progress.
2. For SDG 3.8: Availability and quality of emergency medical services.
   • The article describes emergency medical response and hospital care, indicating the importance of measuring emergency care effectiveness.
3. For SDG 11.2: Road safety indicators such as number of crashes, fatalities, and injuries on public roads.
   • The crash details highlight the need to track road safety statistics.
4. For SDG 16.3 and 16.6: Number of investigations and legal proceedings related to traffic accidents.
   • The ongoing police investigation and mention of potential charges imply the use of justice system indicators.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: 6abc.com