Vineland Crash Kills Pastor, Driver Charged with Manslaughter

Donald Hunt Jr. faces charges including aggravated manslaughter for a New Year's Eve crash that killed Philadelphia pastor Lance Warren.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 9:25pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a shattered car windshield or headlight lens, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the grim aftermath of a fatal car crash.The aftermath of a fatal high-speed crash exposes the tragic human cost of drunk driving and reckless behavior on the roads.Vineland Today

On New Year's Eve in Vineland, a tragic crash took the life of 41-year-old pastor Lance Warren when his Chrysler 300 was struck by a speeding, drunk driver. 34-year-old Donald Hunt Jr. of Pittsgrove has been charged with first-degree aggravated manslaughter, second-degree vehicular homicide, and third-degree strict liability vehicular homicide for the incident.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing issue of drunk driving and excessive speeding leading to fatal crashes, as well as the devastating impact such incidents can have on local communities when a respected community leader like Pastor Warren is killed.

The details

According to authorities, on December 31, 2025 at 9:18 pm, Hunt was driving his Chevrolet Camaro more than twice the posted speed limit and under the influence of alcohol when he crashed into Warren's Chrysler 300 as Warren was making a U-turn on North Delsea Drive and Columbia Avenue in Vineland.

  • On December 31, 2025 at 9:18 pm, the fatal crash occurred.
  • On Monday, Hunt was being held at the Cumberland County Jail, pending a detention hearing set for Wednesday.

The players

Donald Hunt Jr.

A 34-year-old man from Pittsgrove, New Jersey who has been charged with first-degree aggravated manslaughter, second-degree vehicular homicide, and third-degree strict liability vehicular homicide for the fatal New Year's Eve crash.

Lance Warren

A 41-year-old pastor from Philadelphia who was killed in the New Year's Eve crash in Vineland, New Jersey.

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What they’re saying

“A lifetime of ministry and teaching.”

— Lance Warren, Pastor

What’s next

Hunt is being held pending a detention hearing on Wednesday, where the judge will decide whether to allow him out on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the devastating consequences that can result from drunk driving and reckless speeding, and serves as a somber reminder of the importance of road safety and holding impaired drivers accountable for their actions.