Husband and wife killed after crash sends car into NJ lake

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Authorities say a collision sent a vehicle down an embankment and into a New Jersey lake, killing two people inside the vehicle.

WILLINGBORO, N.J. (AP/WTXF) -- Authorities say a collision sent a vehicle down an embankment and into a New Jersey lake, killing two people inside the vehicle.

The crash occurred around 4:30 p.m. Saturday in Willingboro when two vehicles collided at the jug handle on northbound Route 130.

A minivan waiting to cross over onto Bridgeboro Road was reportedly struck by a two-door sedan traveling northbound at "an excessive rate of speed," according to police. Officials have identified the driver of that vehicle as 29-year-old Amish Patel of Delanco.

The force of the impact reportedly propelled the minivan over the guardrail and down an embankment, where it submerged into a body of water that is part of Olympia Lakes.

Lifesaving efforts by multiple rescue squads and fire departments were ultimately unsuccessful. Robert and Janet Stephens, 52 and 50 respectively, were pronounced dead at Lourdes Medical Center. The two were husband and wife.

This is an ongoing investigation. No charges have been filed at this time.

Anyone who witnessed the collision is urged to call Burlington County Central Communications at 609-265-7113.