Robert W. “Robby” Peterson was walking eastbound in the crosswalk on Old Post Road across Route 1, near Popeyes, on Thursday, Aug. 21 at approximately 1:15 a.m., when the traffic signal changed from red to green, giving vehicles the right of way, Edison Police Chief Thomas Bryan said.
Witnesses and the driver, identified as a South Amboy woman, told police Peterson appeared confused about which direction to move, shuffling back and forth in the northbound lane before being struck.
Peterson was pronounced dead at 2:35 a.m. by Dr. Chernokk.
The driver remained at the scene and charges were not expected to be filed, Bryan said.
A GoFundMe for Peterson's family said he was a gifted mechanic and loved "working with his hands, fixing things, and helping others with their cars. For Robby, it wasn’t just about engines or tools—it was about making sure people were safe and taken care of.
"He could spend hours in the garage, and he always took pride in the work he did. That dedication and love for his craft reflected the kind of person he was: hardworking, reliable, and always willing to lend a hand."
This isn't the first lost for the Peterson's tragically. Eight years ago, Peterson's brother died.
"To be facing this kind of heartbreak again is almost unbearable," writes campaign organizer Jessica Kish, who is married to Peterson's other brother. "Losing one brother was a wound that never fully healed, and now, to lose Robby in such a sudden and tragic way has left us reeling.
"We want to honor his memory and give him the farewell he deserves. Unfortunately, the unexpected costs of flowers and arrangements for a viewing have placed a financial strain on our family during this already painful time."
According to his obituary, Peterson worked at Bill’s Service Center in Edison and enjoyed creating freestyle music. He is survived by his mother, Angela Peterson; grandmother, Candice Gibson; brother, Kevin (Jess) Peterson; sister, Ashley (Anthony) Knowlton; and niece, Thea-Rose Knowlton. He was predeceased by his father, John West, and brother, Danny Gibson.
A memorial gathering will be held Thursday, Aug. 28, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Boylan Funeral Home, 10 Wooding Avenue, Edison.
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