Former Dem Lawmaker from New Jersey Dies After Two-Car Collision

Alberto Coutinho, 56, a former Democratic New Jersey assemblyman, died Sunday following a two-vehicle collision in Newark. Coutinho was involved in the crash on McCarter Highway at approximately 7:30 a.m. He survived the initial impact but later suffered a fatal heart attack at the scene, according to NJ. com. The incident remains under investigation. His death prompted statements from officials across New Jersey’s political spectrum. Coutinho’s public record included a prior conviction related to the misuse of funds from a family charity, which led to his resignation from office, a ban from holding public office, and a pardon issued by the governor shortly before his death. Advertisement Albert Coutinho served just over five years in the New Jersey State Assembly. In 2013, he withdrew his reelection bid after authorities determined he had taken $32,500 from the Bernardino Coutinho Foundation, a charity established by his family. At the time, he also cited a recent heart attack as a factor in his decision to step down. Coutinho later accepted a plea agreement that included three years of probation and a lifetime ban from holding elected office, the New York Post reported Advertisement

Governor Issues Pardon Before Death

In early 2026, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy issued a pardon to Coutinho. In announcing the decision, Murphy highlighted Coutinho’s interest in soccer and referenced his enthusiasm during the previous summer’s FIFA Club World Cup Final. The pardon removed the legal penalties stemming from Coutinho’s conviction, including the prohibition on holding public office. Murphy issued a statement upon hearing of Coutinho’s death He was as good a guy as you could imagine and our prayers are with his loved ones and all who were fortunate enough to know him,