
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Teaneck NJ, a Franklin Lakes man has pleaded guilty to reckless driving that killed a 92-year-old Bergenfield resident in a tragic Teaneck crash in June 2022.
On July 14, Scott Lieberman admitted to third-degree vehicular homicide before State Superior Court Judge Kevin Purvin in Hackensack.
What Happened in the Fatal Crash?
Lieberman was behind the wheel of his new Ferrari Competizione when it collided with Albert Schnellbacher’s Chevy Equinox.
Schnellbacher was making a left turn onto Windsor Road from Briarcliffe Road in Teaneck while running errands for a family gathering at his Bergenfield home.
During court testimony, Lieberman confessed to recklessly crossing a solid yellow line to pass another vehicle, causing the deadly collision.
The Legal Fallout
-
Assistant Prosecutor Christine Howland said the state would seek a prison sentence, though the exact term has not been disclosed.
-
Lieberman’s attorney, Paul Faugno, is requesting probation instead of prison time.
-
Sentencing is scheduled for October 23.
Meanwhile, Robert Linder, the lawyer representing Schnellbacher’s estate in a civil lawsuit, previously described the victim as a beloved family man preparing for a gathering when his life was cut short.
Lieberman’s Lawsuit Against Ferrari
Adding a twist to the case, Lieberman filed a lawsuit against Ferrari in June 2023, alleging brake failure contributed to the crash.
However, under questioning in court, he admitted the crash was not caused by any mechanical defect, brake issue, or medical condition—but by his own reckless decision to enter the left-hand lane.
The lawsuit against Ferrari remains active, according to NJCourts.
Reckless Driving and Public Safety in Bergen County
This tragic case highlights the dangers of high-speed reckless driving on Bergen County roads. Crossing a solid yellow line—designed to prevent unsafe passing—resulted in the loss of an innocent life.
Prosecutors say they want a sentence that reflects the seriousness of the crime, while the defense hopes for leniency.
What’s Next?
-
Lieberman faces vehicular homicide sentencing on October 23 in Hackensack.
-
Prosecutors will push for state prison time.
Join the new Saddle River Valley, Ramapo and Pascack Valley Communities Facebook group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1931704860512551/
#news #follow #media #trending #viral #newsupdate #currentaffairs #BergenCountyNews #NJBreakingNews #NJHeadlines #NJTopStories