A Mays Landing man remains in critical condition after being struck by an NJ Transit train earlier this month. Family, friends and community members are rallying to support his recovery.
Tyree Montford, 40, was critically injured on April 13 after being struck by an NJ Transit train near the Jersey Avenue station in New Brunswick. The incident occurred around 11:40 p.m. and involved an out-of-service train moving through the area.
Montford sustained severe injuries and remains hospitalized in critical condition. According to family members, he is in a coma.
Montford is the father of a teenage son, Nyree, a senior at Oakcrest High School who participates in athletics. He is also a grandfather.
As Montford begins what is expected to be a long and uncertain recovery, his loved ones are hoping for progress in time for milestones such as his son’s prom and graduation.
A GoFundMe campaign launched in the days following the accident outlines the emotional and financial toll on the family. The fundraiser notes Montford is expected to face multiple surgeries, extensive rehabilitation and significant lifestyle adjustments.
Costs are mounting, including medical bills, therapy and daily expenses related to supporting his family. In addition to financial donations, community members have organized meal trains, childcare assistance and other support.
As of publication, more than $4,300 has been raised toward an $18,000 goal.
“It’s hard to put into words the pain, fear and uncertainty our family is facing right now,” said Lashawn Russell, Montford’s brother, in a message shared on the fundraising page.
Support has extended beyond donations. Friends and volunteers have coordinated schedules to assist with daily needs, including caring for Montford’s infant grandson, while others have shared the fundraiser online to broaden its reach.
The circumstances surrounding the accident remain under investigation.
Aseealah Davis, a close family friend, said the community has come together to support Montford and his children. She noted that Montford’s mother, Karen, is helping care for both her grandchild and great-grandchild.
“No family should have to carry that kind of weight alone,” Davis said.
“This fundraiser is about more than financial support — it’s about showing this family that they are not alone,” she added.
For the Montford family, the community’s response has become a critical source of both financial relief and emotional support as Montford begins his recovery.
Those wishing to contribute can visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/standing-with-tyree-through-his-long-recovery.
Sarah Fertsch of Egg Harbor Township holds a Bachelors of Arts in Public Relations. She is a locally renowned poet, storyteller, and dog lover.
