Atlantic Highlands, NJ – A bizarre incident left a local couple stunned and amused when a fish plummeted from the sky and crashed into their Tesla, causing significant damage. Cynthia and Jeff Lavine were at their home in Atlantic Highlands, NJ on Sunday when they heard a loud crash. Upon investigation, they discovered their Tesla covered fish detritus.
When the incident happened, the couple initially thought vandals had thrown something at their car.
Cynthia told reporters: “The car started honking, it went crazy honking which we had never heard. I didn’t know how to turn it off. I went out and [Jeff] was in the yard somewhere. He heard the crash and everything, but ignored it.”
Jeff thought: “Is somebody after us?”
They think they know the culprit, pointing to the fact that they’ve seen birds flying with fish in their mouths on occasion.
Cynthia said: “We also have an eagle’s nest in our backyard … We think it was probably the eagle.”
Security footage captured the moment the fish the fish fell, identified as a bunker fish, and made impact, shattering the car’s windshield. The Lavines, who live about a mile from Raritan Bay, believe an eagle was likely responsible for dropping its prey. Bunker fish are abundant in the area, making them a common target for local birds of prey.
Despite the unexpected damage, the Lavines have maintained a good sense of humor about the situation. Jeff jokingly commented, “I lowered my deductibles, so if any birds are listening, please don’t drop it here because I’m covered now.”
As they wait for repairs to be completed, the couple has become somewhat of a local sensation, with their story making headlines across the country.
