Donald Butler Jr, Wheatley Heights Man Killed in New Jersey Turnpike Accident Mourned by Family

Donald Butler Jr of Wheatley Heights is being mourned by family and friends after he was killed in a car accident on the New Jersey turnpike.

Butler Jr, 23, died around 11 p.m. Tuesday night after rear-ending a tractor-trailer on the New Jersey Turnpike in Burlington County while returning from a Virginia State University Homecoming program.

According to reports, the deceased was traveling north near milepost 43.9 in Westampton when his car struck the truck. He was pronounced deceased on the scene.

Following his death, friends and family has been mourning him online.

He was the son of Sylvia Butler, a social media manager for the NY/NJ Gospel Industry Network, and Rev Donald Butler. The couple had three children.

“It brings us great sorrow to announce that Lady Sylvia Butler… has lost her son in a tragic car accident last night.” a post from the Network shared on Facebook, read. “Lady Sylvia, we love you, and we are covering your family in prayer during this difficult time. May God’s peace, which surpasses all understanding, surround and sustain you. We are here for you.”

The elder Donald Butler, a pastor at Community Baptist Church, also shared his message of grief.

“It is with a sad and broken heart that my family and I announce the untimely death of our dear son and brother Donald Butler Jr.” the elder wrote. “Donald was on his way home from the Virginia State University Homecoming and was in a fatal accident on the New Jersey Turnpike.”

He added that the family appreciates all the messages they are receiving and are appreciative of them in this difficult time.