The New Jersey attorney general’s office has launched an investigation into the handling of a fatal car crash involving the then-future wife of U.S. Senator Robert Menendez. The incident occurred on December 12, 2018, when Nadine Menendez, who was dating the New Jersey Democrat at the time, hit a man with her car in Bogota. The man, Richard Koop, died instantly.
At the time of the crash, Nadine Menendez, then known as Nadine Arslanian, was not tested for drugs or alcohol and the police quickly concluded that she was not at fault. She was allowed to leave the scene. According to her statement, the man ran across the street in front of her car and she did not see him until he hit her windshield. The police revealed that the man was wearing a dark-colored jacket, was not in a crosswalk, and had been drinking at a tavern before the crash.
However, the incident gained renewed attention after Senator Menendez and his wife were indicted on charges of accepting bribes. The indictment indicated that Nadine Menendez needed a new car because she had been involved in an “accident.” A businessman from New Jersey is accused of purchasing a $60,000 Mercedes for her in exchange for the senator’s attempt to influence a criminal case.
The inquiry into the handling of the 2018 crash is being conducted by the attorney general’s office. The attorney general’s office has declined to comment on the investigation. The family of the deceased man has expressed concerns about the thoroughness of the original investigation and demands a proper examination. Security camera footage of the collision exists but the angle makes it difficult to discern crucial details.
Nadine Menendez’s attorney maintains that the incident was a tragic accident and his client was not at fault. Both Senator Menendez and his wife have pleaded not guilty to the bribery charges.
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