Cranford Man Killed in Mountainside Hit-and-Run; Suspect Charged

Rocco Della Serra, 65, of Cranford, was killed in a fatal hit-and-run crash on Route 22 in Mountainside on Wednesday, August 6, 2026, at approximately 7:30 p.m. A driver has been charged with second-degree vehicular homicide and second-degree leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident. The crash has left Della Serra's family—including his wife of three months—facing unexpected loss and financial burden.

Union County Life covers Mountainside public safety, criminal justice, and community impact across all 21 Union County municipalities.

The Crash

The fatal collision occurred at the intersection of Route 22 and New Providence Road in Mountainside. According to Union County Prosecutor William A. Daniel, Della Serra was riding a bicycle when he was struck by a vehicle traveling westbound on Route 22 West.

The driver, who was operating the vehicle under the influence of alcohol, ran a red light before striking Della Serra. After the impact, the driver continued driving westbound, leaving Della Serra at the scene.

Criminal Charges and Arrest

Fabian Parra, 35, of North Plainfield, was charged with second-degree vehicular homicide and second-degree leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident resulting in death.

Parra was located by Scotch Plains police approximately three miles from the crash site and arrested. He is currently being held at Essex County Jail awaiting his next court appearance.

Prosecutor Daniel's statement noted that the investigation found Parra was driving under the influence, ran a red light, and struck Della Serra before continuing to flee the scene.

The Victim

Rocco Della Serra was described by family as an adventurous, active person who loved life. According to his family, he enjoyed hiking, staying active, exploring, and "living life to the fullest."

Della Serra is survived by his wife, Zsuzsanna Carlson, whom he married just three months before his death, as well as his children.

Family Support and Fundraiser

The sudden loss has left the family facing immediate hardships. A GoFundMe fundraiser has been launched to support Zsuzsanna Carlson and Della Serra's family with funeral and burial expenses, immediate financial needs, and other unexpected costs related to his death.

The fundraiser describes Carlson as "one of the most selfless and giving people you could ever meet" and notes that she has always "shown up for the people around her." The campaign asks for community support during this difficult time for those who cannot donate but can share the fundraiser and keep the family in their thoughts.

According to the fundraiser page: "Her husband of only three months, Rocco Della Serra, tragically passed away after being involved in a hit-and-run accident while riding his bicycle. In an instant, all of that was tragically changed."

Community Impact

Hit-and-run fatalities represent a failure of accountability and legal responsibility. Della Serra's death is a reminder of the dangers cyclists face on busy roadways and the critical importance of driver sobriety and attention to traffic laws.

The criminal charges against Parra indicate accountability in the criminal justice system, though no charges can bring Della Serra back or undo the loss experienced by his family.

Support and Resources

Individuals wishing to support the family can visit the GoFundMe fundraiser at gofundme.com/f/support-zsuzsanna-after-roccos-loss. Those unable to donate are encouraged to share the campaign and keep the family in their thoughts and prayers.

The criminal case against Fabian Parra is proceeding through the Union County criminal justice system. Further information on the case will be available through court records and prosecutor statements as the case develops.

Find more Mountainside news, public safety, and criminal justice information on Union County Life.

FAQ

Q: What happened on Route 22 in Mountainside on August 6?
A: A fatal hit-and-run crash killed cyclist Rocco Della Serra, 65, of Cranford. The driver, operating under the influence, struck Della Serra's bicycle at the intersection of Route 22 and New Providence Road and fled the scene.

Q: Who was killed?
A: Rocco Della Serra, 65, of Cranford, who was riding a bicycle at the time of the crash.

Q: Who was arrested?
A: Fabian Parra, 35, of North Plainfield, was arrested and charged with second-degree vehicular homicide and second-degree leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident resulting in death.

Q: What charges does Parra face?
A: Second-degree vehicular homicide and second-degree leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident resulting in death. Parra is being held at Essex County Jail.

Q: What caused the crash?
A: According to Prosecutor William A. Daniel, Parra was driving under the influence of alcohol, ran a red light, and struck Della Serra's bicycle before continuing westbound.

Q: Where was Parra arrested?
A: Parra was located and arrested by Scotch Plains police approximately three miles from the crash site on Route 22 West.

Q: How can I support the family?
A: A GoFundMe fundraiser has been established to support Della Serra's wife and children with funeral expenses and family needs. Visit gofundme.com/f/support-zsuzsanna-after-roccos-loss to donate or share the campaign.

Q: Is this case still in court?
A: Yes. Parra is being held at Essex County Jail awaiting his next court appearance.