A former New Jersey police officer has been convicted for causing a fatal car crash that resulted in the deaths of a married couple in 2021. John P. McClave III was found guilty of two counts of second-degree vehicular homicide.
Conviction in Fatal Crash Case
John P. McClave III, 38, from Toms River, N.J., was convicted after a weeklong trial in Ocean County Superior Court. The conviction came on two counts of second-degree vehicular homicide, according to Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago’s office.
Details of the Fatal Crash
The tragic crash occurred on Saturday, October 9, 2021, on Asbury Avenue near the Garden State Parkway overpass. McClave, who was on his way to work at the time, struck the vehicle driven by Angel L. Acevedo, Jr., 40, and his wife, Daniela Correia Salles, 35. Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while McClave was transported to Jersey Shore University Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries.
Reckless Driving and Intoxication
Prosecutors stated that McClave was driving recklessly at the time of the crash. His vehicle left the Garden State Parkway lanes and became airborne after hitting an embankment, ultimately crashing into the victims’ vehicle. Investigators also reported that McClave was under the influence of an intoxicating substance. A blood test revealed that he had THC, a substance found in marijuana, in his system. His blood alcohol level was below the legal limit.
Possible Sentence and Parole Conditions
McClave now faces a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in state prison. Under New Jersey’s No Early Release Act (NERA), 85% of his sentence must be served before he becomes eligible for parole. McClave’s sentencing is tentatively scheduled for Friday, May 8, 2026.
