PLUMSTED – Law enforcement officials are searching for a Beachwood man who has been charged in a crash that killed a woman due to driving under the influence.
John Zinkoski, 41, of Beachwood, was charged with Vehicular Homicide and Strict Liability Vehicular Homicide in connection with a crash that occurred in Plumsted Township on May 12 resulting in the death of Judi Smith, 59, of Browns Mills.
According to police, Smith attempted to make a right-hand turn onto Pinehurst Road when she was hit by Zinkoski who was traveling southbound on Pinehurst Road.
Smith suffered significant injuries and was subsequently transported to Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus in Lakewood, where she ultimately succumbed to those injuries.
Zinkoski was airlifted to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, where he was treated for his injuries and released.
Laboratory results taken at the hospital determined that Zinkoski’s Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) at the time of the crash was in excess of the legal limit. The laboratory results also revealed the presence of cocaine and benzodiazepine in Zinkoski’s blood.
Additionally, authorities discovered that Zinkoski was traveling at an average speed of 86 miles-per-hour at the time of the crash.
On August 8, a warrant was issued for Zinkoski’s arrest. Zinkoski has not yet been taken into custody, and is considered a fugitive from justice.
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Vehicular Homicide Unit, Plumsted Township Police Department, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation.
The charges referenced are merely accusations and the public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
