In a troubling incident that has drawn significant attention, a New Jersey mother faces serious legal repercussions after allegedly driving under the influence with her three young children in the vehicle. The incident occurred in Ewing Township in October 2024, when police responded to a report of a collision involving an SUV and a tractor-trailer.
The driver, identified as 39-year-old Megan Fackler, reportedly failed to navigate a turn properly, resulting in her vehicle striking the rear of the truck. Upon arriving at the scene, officers noted that Fackler’s three daughters, all under the age of ten, were present in the backseat of the SUV. Witnesses and the truck driver indicated that Fackler may have been at fault for the crash.
During initial conversations with the police, Fackler appeared disoriented and struggled to provide coherent answers about the events leading up to the collision. She claimed they were returning home from a lacrosse practice, yet her statements about their direction and intended route were inconsistent. Officers also observed signs of impairment, including slurred speech.
As the situation unfolded, police were concerned about the well-being of the children. Although Fackler initially declined medical assistance, all three children later reported neck pain and were taken to a hospital for evaluation. Fackler, who is noted to have been a former director of statewide planning for the New Jersey Department of Transportation, was ultimately asked to perform field sobriety tests. However, she resisted compliance, indicating a reluctance to cooperate with law enforcement.
After considerable back-and-forth with officers, Fackler was taken into custody on suspicion of driving while intoxicated. Subsequent breath tests revealed a staggering blood alcohol concentration of 0.37, nearly five times the legal limit for operating a vehicle. Following her arrest, Fackler was released on bail two days later, although specific conditions regarding her release remain unspecified.
Fackler is now facing multiple charges, including three counts of endangering the welfare of a child, each carrying a potential prison sentence of three to five years. The three children involved in the incident have since been placed in the care of their uncle.
The case has sparked outrage and concern over the responsibilities of individuals in positions of public trust, particularly those who are charged with ensuring public safety. Fackler is scheduled to appear in court for a pre-indictment hearing on May 21, 2024, as the community and authorities await further developments in this troubling situation.