Scotch Plains Comic Shop Reopens After Car Crashes Into Storefront

SCOTCH PLAINS, NJ — Three weeks after a car smashed head-on into the Scotch Plains' A Little Shop of Comics, the store has reopened.

The shop announced its reopening this past Saturday, Nov. 6.

"Folks We Are Open!" said A Little Shop of Comics. "We are back open for business! That means shopping inside the store!"

• Be the first to know what's happening in your town and area. Sign up to get Patch emails and don't miss a minute of local and state news: patch.com/subscribe

The shop also thanked locals for their support during the re-construction process.

Currently, the front door is not available and patrons are asked to use the rear entrance.

The crash occurred on Oct. 16 at 1:45 a.m. In the video at about 20 seconds in, you can see a silver 2011 Mazda CX7 barreling down Front Street before crashing head-on into the comic shop at 387 Park Ave. while taking out a traffic pole along the way. The SUV does not appear to stop or hit the brakes. Read More: Car Smashes Head-On Into Scotch Plains Comic Shop: Video

Two people were seen in a video getting out of the SUV and just walking away before police arrive.

Police found the SUV crashed into and was partially inside the front of a building, said Scotch Plains Police Captain Jeffrey Briel.

Scotch Plains, Union, and Elizabeth Fire Departments also helped to secure the scene as the building sustained structural damage.

The driver, identified as Adrian L. Elias, 24, of Morristown, was arrested for driving under the influence and assault by auto, said Briel.

Elias was taken to Overlook Hospital for treatment of neck pain. There were three other passengers in the SUV. Two passengers were uninjured and one who had a cut to the forehead, who refused medical attention, said Briel.

The utilities to the building were disconnected and four apartments in the building were evacuated.

Have a news tip? Email [email protected].

Get Patch breaking news alerts sent right to your phone with our new app. Download here. Don't miss local and statewide announcements. Sign up for Patch alerts and daily newsletters.