Passenger Dies in Lincoln Tunnel Chain-Reaction Crash That Snarled Traffic: Port Authority

A passenger died and six other people were hurt in a multi-vehicle accident in the Lincoln Tunnel that brought traffic to a near standstill at the peak of Tuesday's morning rush, authorities say.

A minibus and two other vehicles were involved in the accident in the tunnel's inbound center tube around 8:30 a.m., the Port Authority said. The agency said a red BMW sped into the tunnel and collided with a Mercedes livery van, which collided with the minibus.

Steve Benevento, 49, of Summit, New Jersey, died after the crash, the Port Authority said. He was a passenger in the Mercedes van when he had trouble breathing. The emergency was called in as one of cardiac arrest, the Port Authority said. He was taken to St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital, where he later died. 

A cause of death hasn't been determined. 

Two other people were taken to the hospital, including the driver of the BMW, who had minor injuries. 

Four other victims refused medical attention at the scene, Port Authority officials said.

The center tube reopened Monday afternoon after remaining closed throughout the morning. All New York City-bound traffic had to use the south tube.

Traffic 4 NY was reporting delays of up to 90 minutes to the toll plaza and traffic backed up to the New Jersey Turnpike.

No charges have been filed.

Chopper 4 showed traffic barely moving as several lines of cars merged. 

Contact Us