The 21-year-old man killed in a hit-and-run in Hoboken early Saturday morning was the cousin of top NBA draft pick Ben Simmons, the basketball star announced on Twitter yesterday.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
Zachary Simmons, 21, of Ramsey, was fatally struck by a black Cadillac Escalade around 3:30 a.m. yesterday morning, Hudson County Sheriff Frank Schillari announced yesterday.
Simmons succumbed to his injuries at the Jersey City Medical Center-Barnabas Health about an hour later.
Ben Simmons, a 19-year-old former Louisiana State University (LSU) standout who was selected number one in Thursday’s draft by the Philadelphia 76ers, tweeted that Zach Simmons was his cousin.
In an earlier tweet, Ben Simmons wrote “I’m glad I could share this moment in my life with you,” referring to when he was drafted a few days ago.
“Rest in peace Cuzzo . [sic]Â Much love Zachary Simmons. #rip.”
Schillari also stated yesterday that the search is being expanded to include large black SUVs such as a Yukon, Tahoe or Escalade and the vehicle in question is believed to have a New York registration.
Furthermore, authorities are currently reviewing surveillance footage in hopes of identifying the vehicle at this time.
For anyone with information on the incident, the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office can be reached at 201-915-1300 and the Hoboken Police Department’s phone number is 201-420-2131.
