Manasquan BOE Member Resigns After DUI Crash

Thomas Pellegrino faces multiple charges after crashing into a home

Mar. 21, 2026 at 2:21pm

Thomas Pellegrino, a member of the Manasquan Board of Education, has resigned from his position after a DUI incident where he crashed his vehicle into a home, damaging several parked cars and a front porch. Pellegrino faces multiple charges, including operating under the influence, reckless driving, and leaving the scene of an accident.

Why it matters

Pellegrino's resignation from the Manasquan Board of Education highlights the consequences of drunk driving incidents, especially for those in positions of public trust. The crash also raises concerns about public safety and the need for accountability among community leaders.

The details

According to police, Pellegrino hit two parked cars and drove across several front lawns along Newark Avenue before driving up the stairs of a front porch and into the wall of a house in the early morning hours of March 7. The homeowner reported that Pellegrino's vehicle narrowly missed her 17-year-old son's bedroom. Pellegrino has been charged with operating under the influence, refusal to submit to a breath test, reckless driving, unsafe operation of a vehicle, leaving the scene of an accident, and failing to report an accident.

  • On March 7, Pellegrino crashed his vehicle into a home in the early morning hours.
  • On March 17, the Manasquan Board of Education unanimously accepted Pellegrino's resignation during a school board meeting.
  • Pellegrino's first court appearance is scheduled for April 1.

The players

Thomas Pellegrino

A former member of the Manasquan Board of Education who resigned after a DUI incident where he crashed his vehicle into a home, damaging several parked cars and a front porch.

Mitchell Ansell

Pellegrino's attorney, who stated that Pellegrino is currently taking steps to address his personal health issues and get the help he needs.

Nick Norcias

Manasquan police captain, who provided details about the incident.

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What they’re saying

“After much reflection, I have decided to step down due to personal matters that now require my full attention. This is not something I do lightly, as this role in this community means a great deal to me. I am deeply grateful to the trust, support and relationships built along the way. It has been a privilege to serve a community I truly love, and I remain confident in the board's continued dedication to our students and staff.”

— Thomas Pellegrino, Former Manasquan Board of Education member

“Pellegrino is currently taking steps to address his personal health issues and getting the help he needs at this time.”

— Mitchell Ansell, Pellegrino's attorney

What’s next

Pellegrino's first court appearance is scheduled for April 1, where the judge will determine the next steps in his legal proceedings.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of accountability and responsible behavior, especially for those in positions of public trust. The resignation of a school board member due to a DUI crash serves as a reminder of the consequences of drunk driving and the need for community leaders to set an example for the people they serve.