JERSEY CITY, NEW JERSEY — Heartbreak in Hamilton Park: Remembering Six-Year-Old Eli Bender
JERSEY CITY, NEW JERSEY — Heartbreak in Hamilton Park: Remembering Six-Year-Old Eli Bender
JERSEY CITY, NEW JERSEY — What began as an ordinary Friday afternoon in the heart of Jersey City ended in unspeakable tragedy when six-year-old Eli Bender was fatally struck by a UPS delivery truck while riding his bicycle alongside his father near Hamilton Park. The devastating incident unfolded just steps away from the community’s vibrant playgrounds and tree-lined walkways—places where laughter, families, and the everyday rhythms of childhood are a familiar part of life.
According to authorities, the accident occurred around 3:45 p.m. on Friday near the intersection of 8th Street and Jersey Avenue, a location heavily trafficked by both vehicles and pedestrians. Witnesses say Eli and his father were enjoying a sunny afternoon ride when a turning UPS truck collided with the child’s bike. Despite immediate efforts by first responders and the anguished cries of bystanders, Eli succumbed to his injuries shortly after the collision. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The news has sent shockwaves throughout Jersey City and beyond. A vibrant, playful, and endlessly curious boy, Eli Bender was known among his neighbors and friends as a bright light—a child whose laughter could be heard echoing through the park and whose imagination had no limits. He attended kindergarten at a nearby public school, where he had already won the hearts of his classmates and teachers alike with his boundless enthusiasm for dinosaurs, building blocks, and books.
“Eli was one of those children who lit up a room with just a smile,” one teacher recalled tearfully. “He was curious about everything. He asked questions like an old soul, and he brought so much life and energy to our classroom every single day.”
The Bender family, long-time residents of the Hamilton Park neighborhood, are said to be devastated by the loss. A family friend shared that Eli’s father had been riding just a few feet ahead of him when the incident occurred and is overwhelmed with grief and disbelief.
The UPS driver involved in the accident remained at the scene and is cooperating fully with the investigation. As of now, authorities have not released any further details regarding potential charges or contributing factors. The Jersey City Police Department’s Crash Investigation Unit is continuing its work to piece together the moments leading up to the crash.
In the wake of the tragedy, the local community has rallied around the Bender family. A growing memorial at the scene of the accident features candles, flowers, hand-drawn cards, and stuffed animals—all tributes to a young boy whose life was cut tragically short. Community members are also organizing vigils and fundraising efforts to support the family during this unimaginable time.
“We all feel this loss deeply,” said a neighbor. “Eli was not just any child—he was our child. We watched him grow up on these sidewalks, in this park, at our block parties. This is a tragedy that touches every parent, every child, every soul in this city.”
Local advocacy groups have also called for renewed conversations around pedestrian safety, traffic control, and infrastructure design—especially in areas frequented by families and children. Many are urging the city to reconsider truck routes and implement stricter safety measures around parks and schools.
“While we grieve the loss of Eli, we must also work to ensure that no other family experiences this kind of pain,” said a representative from Safe Streets Jersey City. “This should never have happened—and it should never happen again.”
Eli Bender’s funeral arrangements are currently being made, with friends and family requesting privacy during this incredibly difficult time. A public memorial service is expected to be announced in the coming days, where the community will have the opportunity to come together in remembrance and solidarity.
Eli is survived by his loving parents, Sarah and Michael Bender, and his older sister, Lily, who described her brother as her “best friend and favorite adventure buddy.”
In a statement issued by the family, they wrote:
“Eli brought so much joy into our lives. He loved life, he loved people, and he loved his bike. He was our sunshine. We are heartbroken, and we ask for your prayers, your love, and your support as we navigate life without our beautiful boy.”
As Jersey City grieves, one thing is painfully clear—Eli Bender’s life, though short, left an indelible mark on the hearts of many. He will never be forgotten.
