A 19-year-old former high school hockey star died in a Thanksgiving night crash in Roxbury, New Jersey. Gavin Barooah, who played for the Roxbury High School Gaels, collided with another vehicle at an intersection and was pronounced dead at the scene.
New Jersey 101.5 reported that the crash occurred around 8 p.m. on Thursday, November 28, at the intersection of Morris and Sussex Turnpikes in Randolph, New Jersey.
Barooah, a resident of Ledgewood, was driving a Mercedes-Benz when it collided with a Jeep. The Jeep’s driver was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
No passengers were in either vehicle at the time of the crash. Barooah’s death marks the 20th fatal accident in Morris County this year, according to State Police records.
The tragedy has left a deep impact on the local community, particularly the Roxbury High School hockey team. Barooah had been a beloved member of the team, playing all four years of high school hockey for the Gaels. In an Instagram post, the team expressed their sorrow, calling Barooah not just a teammate, but a friend and captain.
"Today, our hearts are heavy. The Roxbury hockey community learned today of the passing of a friend, teammate, and captain," the team wrote. "To our extended hockey family, let's honor Gavin's memory."
The Roxbury Gaels’ post went on to encourage their followers to celebrate Barooah’s life and remember the positive impact he had on their team and the wider community. His leadership and friendship were central to his role on the team.
In addition to his hockey career, Barooah was known for his work at Alpha Fitness in Newton, New Jersey, where he was employed at the Ledgewood location. The owners of Alpha Fitness expressed their deep sorrow following the news of Barooah’s passing.
"My wife and I love Gavin, everyone at Alpha cares for him so much. It’s beyond work or business, we have all truly become family," the owners wrote in a Facebook post. "We will miss his energy, smile, helpfulness, and enthusiasm. Such a good kid."
Barooah’s colleagues at Alpha Fitness described him as someone who brought positivity and enthusiasm to every aspect of his life, making him a cherished part of the team. His tragic death has left a void in both his workplace and his tight-knit community.
The crash is currently under investigation by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office. Authorities are working to determine the exact cause of the collision. While Barooah’s death is confirmed, the circumstances surrounding the crash are still being examined by law enforcement.
The Morris County Prosecutor's Office has not yet released further details regarding the cause or any potential charges related to the crash. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward.
This fatal crash marks a somber moment in the county’s efforts to reduce traffic fatalities. According to State Police records, this is the 20th fatal crash in Morris County in 2024. Law enforcement and public safety officials have expressed concern over the increase in deadly accidents and are continuing efforts to ensure safer road conditions for all residents.
Local officials have reached out to the family of Gavin Barooah to express their condolences and offer support during this difficult time.
As the community grapples with the loss of a young man with so much potential, Barooah’s family, friends, teammates, and colleagues are left to remember the joyful spirit he brought to every part of his life. His untimely death on Thanksgiving night has shaken those who knew him best, but his legacy will continue to live on through the memories of those he left behind.
The Roxbury High School hockey team, Alpha Fitness, and the wider community have all shared heartfelt messages about Barooah’s character. His death has touched the lives of many, and his story will remain in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.
