Suspect's photo released in Ocean County hit-and-run crash

LAKEHURT, N.J. (WPVI) -- Police are on the hunt for a suspected hit-and-run driver in Ocean County.

Investigators say 54-year-old Robert Dechert of the 200 Block of Cedar Street in Lakehurst was behind the wheel of a 2014 Kia that hit another car on Route 37 East in Lakehurst Sunday night then sped off.

They say a uniformed off-duty Seaside Heights police officer saw the incident and followed Dechert's car to the Aqua Blu Restaurant on Route 37.

When the officer approached the vehicle, police say Dechert tried to run him down.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Lakehurt Police Traffic Officer Mark Nater at 732-349-0150.