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Wildwood Community Mourns Motorcyclist Remembered for Signature Rabbit-Eared Helmet

Issue #765

August 02, 2026

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In This Cape May Local Scoop Issue…

 📆 Cape May Events

☀️ Cape May Local Weather 

🐰 Wildwood Community Mourns Motorcyclist Remembered for Signature Rabbit-Eared Helmet

🏒Lunch & Learn Examines Black Colonial Life in Revolutionary-Era New Jersey

🐦‍⬛CMBO Hosts Birding Excursions for Beginners and Experienced Birders

Cape May Local Scoop’s Events Are Sponsored By: Survivors of Cancer

👇 Here’s what’s going on in the Cape May Local Area👇  

 August 1

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Wildwood Community Mourns Motorcyclist Remembered for Signature Rabbit-Eared Helmet

A Cape May County woman has been charged after authorities say prescription medications may have played a role in a crash that claimed the life of a well-known local motorcyclist.

Teresa L. Rott, 63, of Cape May Court House, is facing charges of driving under the influence and reckless driving following the July 10 collision that killed 26-year-old Brandon Luis Vega Crespo of Wildwood.

According to investigators, the crash occurred at approximately 11:45 p.m. on Route 47 near the George Redding Bridge in Lower Township. Police said Rott was traveling northbound and attempting to turn left onto Shawcrest Road when Crespo's motorcycle, which was heading south, struck her vehicle.

The impact threw Crespo from the motorcycle and into a utility pole. He was pronounced dead at the scene, and the motorcycle later caught fire after sliding into a curb.

Authorities allege that Rott had taken the prescription medications gabapentin and tramadol before the crash. Blood and urine test results remain pending as the investigation continues.

Lower Township Police Chief Donald Vanaman said the case remains under review, with assistance from the Cape May County Prosecutor's Office. Court records indicate that Rott has not been lodged in the Cape May County jail, and no attorney has been listed on her behalf.

The tragedy has deeply affected the Wildwood community, where Crespo was widely recognized for the rabbit ears attached to his motorcycle helmet. Known affectionately as "Bunny Bear," he became a familiar figure among local riders and residents.

Born in Puerto Rico, Crespo attended Wildwood High School and began working at the North Cape May McDonald's in 2017. He was promoted to manager in 2022 and was remembered by friends and co-workers as a hardworking and caring person who made a lasting impression on those around him.

This story has some legs and maybe it’s a good thing. There is something about a mysterious yet colorful biker identified by his large furry bunny helmet. On first pass the thought was always ‘did I see what I just saw?” Then subsequent encounters were validating and uplifting. Brandon Crespo always had a wave or a nod for anyone that acknowledged him and it felt like a brush with an approachable local celebrity. Hopefully this development will give family needed closure and quell rumors that painted Crespo in an unfavorable light.

Crespo is survived by his parents, three brothers, a sister, grandparents, his girlfriend, and numerous friends. In the days following his death, members of the local motorcycle community organized memorial rides and gathered near the crash site to honor his memory, many wearing bunny-themed helmet covers in tribute to the rider who had become a beloved local figure.

 

Lunch & Learn Examines Black Colonial Life in Revolutionary-Era New Jersey

Residents interested in New Jersey history will have an opportunity to learn more about the experiences of Black communities during the Revolutionary War when author and historian Ellen Alford presents a special Lunch & Learn program on Aug. 5.

The presentation, titled "From Hearth & Home to the Battle: Black Colonial Life in the Revolutionary Era in West & East Jersey," will begin at noon and will be offered both in person at Hope Church Parish Hall and online through Zoom.

Alford's program examines the lives of both enslaved and free Black residents of colonial New Jersey, drawing from historical records, military accounts, and personal stories to provide a deeper understanding of their experiences during a pivotal period in American history.

The discussion will explore how the language of liberty that defined the Revolutionary era inspired many Black residents to seek freedom while navigating the dangers and uncertainties of war. Attendees will also learn about the difficult decisions individuals faced as they chose whether to support the Patriot cause or align themselves with British forces that offered freedom in exchange for military service.

The program will highlight the experiences of notable Black soldiers and community members while examining the differences between life in East Jersey and West Jersey during the colonial period.

Hosted in partnership with the Camden County Library system, the event is designed to offer a closer look at the people whose stories have often been overlooked despite their lasting contributions to the state's history.

Event Details

  • Date: Aug. 5, 2026

  • Time: Noon

  • Location: Hope Church Parish Hall and Zoom

  • Presenter: Author and historian Ellen Alford

CMBO Hosts Birding Excursions for Beginners and Experienced Birders

The New Jersey Audubon Society's Cape May Bird Observatory (CMBO) is inviting bird enthusiasts of all experience levels to take part in guided birding walks through Cape May Point State Park and surrounding areas.

The two-hour excursions, led by experienced CMBO naturalists, offer participants an opportunity to explore one of North America's premier birding destinations while learning about the region's remarkable diversity of migratory and resident bird species.

Organizers say the walks are designed for everyone, from seasoned birders to visitors who may be experiencing birdwatching for the very first time.

Participants can expect a relaxed pace as guides help identify species, explain migration patterns and point out some of the area's unique habitats. The route may cover up to 1.5 miles of generally flat terrain, although conditions can include muddy or sandy trails. Some outings may also involve crossing jetties.

Because weather conditions in Cape May can change quickly and often differ from those found farther inland, attendees are encouraged to dress in layers and bring rain gear when necessary. Organizers note that programs are held in nearly all weather conditions.

Advance registration is required. Admission costs $8 for New Jersey Audubon members and $12 for nonmembers. Membership information is available through the organization for those interested in joining.

According to the Cape May Bird Observatory, birdwatching is one of the defining experiences of a visit to the region, which is internationally recognized as a critical stopover point for migrating birds.

Additional information and registration details are available through the Cape May Bird Observatory website.

 Answer to the August 1st Trivia Question

What historic mode of transportation once brought vacationers to Cape May in the 19th century?
A) Paddlewheel steamboats from Philadelphia
B) A private airfield for zeppelins
C) Underground trolley lines
D) Horse-drawn canal boats from New York

Answer: A) Paddlewheel steamboats from Philadelphia.
In the 1800s, Cape May was a popular resort destination, and paddlewheel steamboats brought visitors from cities like Philadelphia across the Delaware Bay.

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