A suspected drunk-driving crash outside a preschool in Monmouth County has shaken a local community and renewed concerns about impaired driving near schools and family pickup areas.

Authorities say the incident happened Friday afternoon outside Bloom Academy, where a mother and her two young children were struck by an out-of-control SUV as they were leaving the building. Police responded to the scene at approximately 3 p.m. after reports of pedestrians hit by a vehicle.

According to investigators, the driver — a 68-year-old woman from Manalapan — was allegedly operating the vehicle while intoxicated and was charged with driving while intoxicated, assault by auto, and endangering the welfare of a child.

The victims were transported to a hospital for treatment and later released. Officials said the youngest child sustained a leg injury and burns after bearing the brunt of the impact.

Surveillance footage reportedly shows the family leaving the preschool and heading toward their vehicle when the SUV approached. The mother attempted to pull both children out of the vehicle's path, but the youngest child was struck and knocked to the ground.

The crash also caused structural damage to the preschool building, including to a column and railing near the front entrance.

In a statement, preschool officials said they were deeply saddened by the incident but relieved that the injuries were not more severe.

The crash remains under investigation, and authorities have not released additional details about possible contributing factors beyond suspected intoxication. Currently, Bloom Academy still has damage to the entrance, but the center is open for business.

Traffic safety advocates say crashes involving pedestrians — especially near schools — remain a major concern in Monmouth County and across New Jersey. Incidents involving impaired driving often lead to serious criminal charges because of the high risk posed to pedestrians and children in pickup and drop-off zones.

Sources

Patch.com. “Drunk Driver Crashed Into Woman and Children Outside New Jersey Preschool, Police Say.” Local News Report, Patch New Jersey — Freehold Area, February 2026.

KSWO News. “Mother and Two Sons Hit by Out-of-Control SUV While Walking Out of Preschool.” Television News Report, February 18, 2026.

WCTV News. “Mother and Two Sons Hit by Out-of-Control SUV While Walking Out of Preschool.” Television News Report, February 18, 2026.

AOL News. “Mother and Two Young Children Survive After Being Struck by SUV Outside Preschool.” National News Summary, February 2026.