Thomas Hengel, Lisa Hengel, Mullica Hill Death News – Authorities in Harrison Township, New Jersey, are investigating a fatal car crash that occurred Saturday evening when a vehicle collided with a home, resulting in the deaths of two people and a fire at the residence. Police identified the victims as 72-year-old Thomas Hengel and his 61-year-old wife, Lisa Hengel, both residents of Mullica Hill.
The crash happened around 6:17 p.m. on Banff Drive, according to the Harrison Township Police Department. Police said that the couple’s 2020 Hyundai Palisade SUV accelerated unexpectedly for unknown reasons, struck a curb, crossed two front yards, and collided with the exterior wall of a home. The impact caused the vehicle to come to rest inside the living room of the home, sparking a fire that engulfed both the SUV and part of the residence. Emergency responders were on the scene quickly, and although the home’s occupants were unharmed, the fire and damage were significant.
The circumstances of the crash are still under investigation by Harrison Township police in collaboration with the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office. Authorities have not determined what caused the SUV to accelerate or whether mechanical issues played a role.
Thomas Hengel was widely known in the community as a longtime coach for Clearview Regional School District. He served as a track and cross-country coach for multiple decades and also coached other sports, contributing to a total of 94 combined seasons in the district. His contributions were recognized with his induction into the Gloucester County Sports Hall of Fame in 2018. Many former athletes remembered him as a mentor and father figure, citing his influence on their personal and athletic development. Cassandra Kulik, a former state champion, described Coach Hengel as a guiding figure throughout her athletic career. Another former athlete, Molly Mahoney, said his mentorship inspired her to pursue coaching and teaching.
Lisa Hengel was also deeply respected in the community for her work in landscape design, where she spent more than 30 years creating and maintaining gardens across South Jersey. Neighbors and friends remembered the couple for their generosity, care for their surroundings, and dedication to their community. Residents recalled how the Hengels maintained a beautiful home and garden and actively supported those around them.
The loss of the Hengels has been felt widely by students, athletes, neighbors, and friends. Members of the community are supporting the family who lived in the home impacted by the crash, including fundraising efforts to help them recover and relocate as they plan for the future.
Officials have emphasized that the crash remains under active investigation, and no additional details about potential causes have been released. Emergency responders and law enforcement continue to review the scene and vehicle, and the community has been asked to respect the ongoing inquiry.
The Hengels’ contributions to their community, through coaching, landscaping, and neighborly support, have left a lasting legacy, and friends, former students, and residents continue to honor their memory while offering support to those affected by this tragic incident.
