Former Miss America contestant critically injured in car crash
PITTSGROVE TOWNSHIP, N.J. -- A former Miss America contestant has been critically injured in a car crash on a New Jersey highway.
State police say former Miss New Jersey Cara McCollum was northbound on Route 55 in Pittsgrove Township when her car spun off the roadway Monday night and hit a tree. The car spun again and hit two more trees before ending up in an embankment.
The 24-year-old from Margate was alone in her vehicle and was wearing a seatbelt. She remained hospitalized Tuesday in critical condition.
State police say McCollum appeared to have been driving too fast for conditions on the wet roadway. They do not believe alcohol or drugs were a factor. The car's air bags deployed.
McCollum won the 2013 Miss New Jersey pageant. She is now an anchor on SNJ Today, a news show serving the southern Jersey area.
According to CBS New York, McCollum is a Princeton University graduate. She recieved a $11,000 scholarship for her win.
"Cara has experience as a journalist, spokesperson, and TV host," said Frank DiMauro, Chief Operating Officer at SNJ Today when it was announced McCollum would be joining their team. "She also has a passion for literacy and a personality to match. Cara is a wonderful addition, trusted news source and supporter of all things South Jersey."
The show issued a statement Tuesday, saying, "Cara is a beloved member of our SNJ Today family. She and her family are in our thoughts and prayers."