TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–MidJersey News is saddened to report the passing of our friend and colleague, veteran news photographer/videographer Brian McCarthy, who died on Nov. 28, 2023 following a brief hospital stay. Brian was a loyal supporter of MidJersey News from the beginning and his photos have featured prominently on this site over the past four years.
In a career that spanned nearly 50 years, Brian photographed presidents and politicians, Hollywood actors and rock stars, race car drivers and athletes. He photographed combat overseas and peaceful protests closer to home. He photographed community events, charity fundraisers and parades.
But he was best known for his photos and videos showing the work of firefighters, police, emergency medical professionals, the military, and other first responders in the Mercer County area. Brian responded to fires, crashes, crimes and other breaking news incidents not because he wanted to exploit such tragedies. Instead, he did so because – through his camera lens – he wanted to document the positive things that emergency services personnel do day in and day out. He wanted the public to see the heroism and humanity of first responders in the face of such horrors.
For this work, Brian earned the respect of many in the emergency services community. Tributes to Brian and memories of him are being posted on his Facebook page by active and retired firefighters, police officers, and EMTs, as well as longtime friends and fans.
Brian worked as an assignment photographer for United Press International and as a longtime freelancer for both of Trenton’s daily newspapers and other publications. He was also a publisher in his own right, having printed various community news publications over the years. In the digital age, his work has appeared all over Facebook and YouTube.
“I’m Brian McCarthy and you’re on scene with me at… Let’s see what’s going on.” That was how Brian usually introduced his videos. In those videos, Brian always sought to inform and educate his viewing public about what was going on and how emergency personnel were working to save the day.
A native of Massachusetts, Brian and his family moved to New Jersey after his father – Walter “Pep” McCarthy, previously the head football coach at Boston Latin School – was hired as the freshman football coach at Princeton University in 1960. After 10 seasons coaching, “Pep” McCarthy assumed top administrative roles in Princeton University’s athletics department.
Sadly, Brian’s mother Ruth passed away in 1973 and his father was killed in a car crash in 1977. MidJersey extends our condolences to Brian’s daughter Shannon, his sister Lauren and his brother Sean.
See original MidJersey.News stories on the murders here:
Trenton’s Homicide Body County Now At 24 For 2020, Law Enforcement Officials Plan To Deploy More Law Enforcement
Names Released In This Morning’s Double Shooting
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri announced today that the Mercer County Homicide Task Force has arrested and charged three men for the August 9, 2020 double homicide on Centre Street in Trenton.
Darnell Davis, 19, of Willingboro, Tyzir Hamilton, 19, of Trenton, and Treizon Thompson, 20, of Trenton, are each charged with two counts of first-degree murder, one count of second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, one count of second-degree unlawful possession of a weapon and one count of first-degree conspiracy. The three men were all taken into custody on Tuesday in Trenton. The prosecutor’s office has filed motions to detain all three defendants.
The charges are the result of an investigation by the Mercer County Homicide Task Force. Prosecutor Onofri praised the investigative work of the HTF and thanked the public for the assistance provided during the investigation. “For weeks, detectives have methodically pieced the puzzle together, identifying the vehicle and all three suspects. But the help of the public in solving this double homicide was instrumental. It allowed us to follow leads from the very beginning, helping to point investigators in the right direction and allowing them to connect the dots.”
“Now more than ever, we need the community to work with us,” Prosecutor Onofri continued, referencing Tuesday night’s shooting that left an eight year old and a 16 year old dead. “This homicide case, along with recent sex assault cases, have been successfully solved by us all working together for justice, and I encourage the public to continue communication with law enforcement.”
On August 9, 2020, at approximately 7:30 a.m., patrol officers with the Trenton Police Department responded to the area of 300 Centre Street for a shooting in progress. Upon arrival, officers located the first victim, William Irizarry, 18, lying on the street in the area of 339 Centre Street. He had sustained multiple gunshot wounds throughout his body and was pronounced dead at the scene. The second victim, Julius Vargas, 18, was located inside a corner market with a gunshot wound. Vargas was transported to the hospital for treatment, however, succumbed to his injuries a short time later.
File Photos by: Brian McCarthy OnScene News
The Trenton Police Crime Scene Unit photographed and processed the scene. Approximately 24 9mm shell casings were located. The scene inside of the market was also photographed and processed, and blood and several individual bags of suspected heroin were discovered.
According to the affidavit, HTF detectives were able to locate a witness and numerous cameras in the area of the shooting. A suspect vehicle was identified as a black Chrysler 300 with PA plates, along with two shooters, described as two black males wearing all black clothing and black ski masks. The black Chrysler 300 is seen circling the area before the shooting, then parking and watching the victims for several minutes as they stood on the corner with others. When the suspect vehicle drives up to the corner and stops, two shooters, later identified as Hamilton and Thompson, exit. Both run toward the victims, firing multiple gunshots. The driver, later identified as Davis, remains in the car. Hamilton and Thompson then chase after Irizarry as he runs into the street, continuing to shoot at him. When Irizarry falls to ground after suffering a gunshot wound, they both continue to shoot at him as he lays on the ground. Afterward, Hamilton and Thompson return to the suspect vehicle, which flees.
Further investigation revealed that a black Chrysler 300 was stolen out of Bensalem, Pennsylvania, on August 3, 2020, and seen on an automated license plate reader camera in the area of Pennington Avenue and Reservoir Street in Trenton on August 4. Detectives were able to partially match the license plate of the suspect vehicle to that of the stolen vehicle out of Bensalem.
The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Computer Crimes Unit conducted a physical search and forensic examination of Irizarry’s cell phone, pursuant to a search warrant, and a photo was found that Irizarry posted on his Facebook page disrespecting the H-Block gang. Detectives continued to monitor multiple public social media posts throughout the month of August of numerous H-Block gang members talking about the murders of Irizarry and Vargas, taunting and threatening friends and family of the victims. They also referenced Irizarry disrespecting the H-Block gang prior to being murdered.
On September 1, 2020, while on surveillance during another investigation, HTF detectives observed the black Chrysler 300 with Pennsylvania plates driving in the area of Perry and Southard streets in Trenton. While detectives were attempting to identify the occupants, the vehicle took off at a high rate of speed and a pursuit ensued. The pursuit came to an end on Reservoir Street near Frazier Street, where the vehicle crashed into a telephone pole and the occupants subsequently escaped on foot. Area surveillance footage shows the vehicle crash into the pole. Two black males exited the vehicle through the front passenger door, both wearing all black with their hoods up. The black males fled on Reservoir Street toward Frazier Street and subsequently made a right onto Frazier Street toward Pennington Avenue, then out of sight. One of the black males had what appeared to be a black handgun in his right hand.
A search warrant was obtained for the vehicle and detectives located a fully-loaded, 9mm Taurus handgun under the driver’s seat. The handgun was submitted to the New Jersey State Police Laboratory and identified as one of the guns used in the murders of Irizarry and Vargas. Further investigation revealed another witness who was able to identify Davis, Hamilton and Thompson as being responsible for the deaths of Irizarry and Vargas.
During Tuesday’s arrests of the three suspects, additional search warrants were executed in relation to the investigation and two more guns were located. Prosecutor Onofri thanked the Mercer County Homicide Task Force, his Special Investigations Unit, the U.S. Marshals NY/NJ Regional Fugitive Task Force, and the Mercer County Tactical Response Team, under the leadership of Mercer County Sheriff Jack Kemler, for their assistance.
Despite having been charged, every defendant is presumed innocent until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Treizon Thompson, 20, of Trenton
Tyzir Hamilton, 19, of Trenton
Darnell Davis, 19, of Willingboro
Darnell Davis, 19, of Willingboro, Tyzir Hamilton, 19, of Trenton, and Treizon Thompson, 20, of Trenton, are each charged with two counts of first-degree murder, one count of second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, one count of second-degree unlawful possession of a weapon and one count of first-degree conspiracy.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–The Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Trenton Police Department are investigating a shooting that occurred early Friday morning June 9, 2023, in the city, Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri reported.
At approximately 12:03 a.m., Trenton police responded to the area of Aspen Alley and Evans Avenue in response to a Shot Spotter activation. Upon arrival, officers located a male victim suffering from multiple gunshot wounds to the torso area. He was transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center for treatment. The victim was identified as Markell Biggs, 20, of Trenton, and was pronounced dead at the hospital.
No arrests have been made and the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Mercer County Homicide Task Force at (609) 989-6406. Information can also be emailed to [email protected].
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–The Trenton Police Department and the Mercer County Homicide Task Force are investigating an afternoon shooting in the 600 Block of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard this afternoon that happened around 3:00 p.m.
Trenton Police Department Public Information Officer Detective Lieutenant Nathan Bolognini told MidJersey.news that three people were shot and two were in extremely critical condition. No other information was available at the time of this report.
A witness stated that there was a heavy police presence at the Trauma Center at Capital Health Regional Medical Center and there was crime scene tape outside the emergency room area. It was unclear but there were reports of about 30 shots fired and a possible drive-by type shooting. One of the three victims arrived by personal car to the Trauma Center.
MidJersey.news has reached out to the Mercer County Prosecutors Office for additional information and when further information becomes available the story will be updated. — See updated link below:
The Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Trenton Police Department are investigating a shooting that occurred in the area of Rutherford Avenue and Prospect Street last night. At approximately 8:21 pm, Trenton Police received a ShotSpotter activation for six rounds in the area of 328 Rutherford Avenue. Trenton Police responded to the area and located a male in an area behind 332 and 330 Rutherford Avenue suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. He was transported to the hospital but was later pronounced deceased. The victim has been identified as Daniel Garvin, 46 years old, of Trenton.
The investigation is ongoing and no arrests have been made. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Mercer County Homicide Task Force at (609) 989-6406. Information can also be emailed to [email protected].
Morning Update:
The Mercer County Prosecutors Office has identified the victim as Daniel Garvin, 46 years old, of Trenton.
April 14, 2023
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Sometime before 9:00 p.m. Trenton Police, Trenton EMS, Captial Health Paramedics and Trenton Fire responded to the 300 Block of Rutherford Avenue near Prospect Street for a shooting. Upon arrival a person was found shot and there reports of CPR being given. The person was transported to Captial Health Regional Medical Center and a trauma alert was called enroute to the hospital. The person was pronounced a short time later.
The Mercer County Homicide Task Force is investigating the shooting.
The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office did confirm a fatal shooting, but other details were not available.
TRENTON (Mercer) – Law enforcement officials are investigating a shooting that occurred this evening (Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024) in the Chambersburg section of the city.
It was about 6:50 p.m. when emergency services were dispatched to the area of South Broad Street and Chestnut Avenue in response to a report that a person had been shot. Trenton police officers, Trenton Emergency Medical Service personnel, Capital Health System paramedics and firefighters from Engine 3 arrived and quickly located the victim.
According to emergency services radio reports, the person had been shot in the abdomen. The victim was rushed by ambulance to the trauma center at Capital Health Regional Medical Center. No update was available on the person’s condition.
Trenton police and members of the Mercer County Shooting Response Team were on scene investigating this evening. Crime scene tape could be seen blocking off two specific areas in the neighborhood: in front of a business in the 900 block of South Broad Street, and in front of a row of houses on Adeline Street between Beatty and Malone streets.
January 5, 2024
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER) – Two Trenton men were sentenced this week to 60 years in state prison each without parole, Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri announced.
Treizon Thompson, 23, and Tyzir Hamilton, 22, were sentenced by Mercer County Superior Judge Peter E. Warshaw in separate appearances on January 4, 2024. Both men were sentenced to two 30-year sentences with a mandatory 30-year period of parole ineligibility. Warshaw granted the state’s request to run the sentences consecutively for a total of 60 years in state prison.
At their respective trials in December 2022 and September 2023, Thompson and Hamilton were found guilty by Mercer County juries on all counts of the indictment, including two counts of murder, conspiracy to commit murder, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose and unlawful possession of a handgun.
On August 9, 2020, at approximately 7:30 a.m., patrol officers with the Trenton Police Department responded to the area of 300 Centre Street for a shooting in progress. Upon arrival, officers located the first victim, William Irizarry, 18, lying on the street in the area of 339 Centre Street. He had sustained multiple gunshot wounds throughout his body and was pronounced dead at the scene. The second victim, Julius Vargas, 18, was located inside a corner market with a gunshot wound. Vargas was transported to the hospital for treatment, however, succumbed to his injuries a short time later.
HTF detectives were able to locate a witness and numerous cameras in the area of the shooting. A suspect vehicle was identified as a black Chrysler 300 with PA plates, along with two shooters, described as two black males wearing all black clothing and black ski masks. The black Chrysler 300 was seen circling the area before the shooting, then parking and watching the victims for several minutes as they stood on the corner with others. When the suspect vehicle drove up to the corner and stopped, two shooters, later identified as Thompson and Tyzir Hamilton, exited. Both ran toward the victims, firing multiple gunshots. The driver, later identified as Darnell Davis, remained in the car. Hamilton and Thompson then chased after Irizarry as he ran into the street, continuing to shoot at him. When Irizarry fell to the ground after suffering a gunshot wound, they both continued to shoot at him as he lay on the ground. Afterward, Hamilton and Thompson returned to the suspect vehicle, which fled.
Further investigation revealed that a black Chrysler 300 was stolen out of Bensalem, Pennsylvania, on August 3, 2020, and seen on an automated license plate reader camera in the area of Pennington Avenue and Reservoir Street in Trenton on August 4. Detectives were able to partially match the license plate of the suspect vehicle to that of the stolen vehicle out of Bensalem.
The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Computer Crimes Unit conducted a physical search and forensic examination of Irizarry’s cell phone, pursuant to a search warrant, and a photo was found that Irizarry posted on his Facebook page disrespecting the H-Block gang. Detectives continued to monitor multiple public social media posts throughout the month of August of numerous H-Block gang members talking about the murders of Irizarry and Vargas, taunting and threatening friends and family of the victims. They also referenced Irizarry disrespecting the H-Block gang prior to being murdered.
On September 1, 2020, while on surveillance during another investigation, HTF detectives observed the black Chrysler 300 with Pennsylvania plates driving in the area of Perry and Southard streets in Trenton. While detectives were attempting to identify the occupants, the vehicle took off at a high rate of speed and a pursuit ensued. The pursuit came to an end on Reservoir Street near Frazier Street, where the vehicle crashed into a telephone pole and the occupants subsequently escaped on foot. Area surveillance footage shows the vehicle crash into the pole. Two black males exited the vehicle through the front passenger door, both wearing all black with their hoods up. The black males fled on Reservoir Street toward Frazier Street and subsequently made a right onto Frazier Street toward Pennington Avenue, then out of sight.
A search warrant was obtained for the vehicle and detectives located a fully-loaded, 9mm Taurus handgun under the driver’s seat. The handgun was submitted to the New Jersey State Police Laboratory and identified as one of the guns used in the murders of Irizarry and Vargas. Further investigation revealed another witness who was able to identify Davis, Hamilton and Thompson as being responsible for the deaths of Irizarry and Vargas.
At the time of the arrest of all three suspects in October 2020, Prosecutor Onofri praised the investigative work of the Mercer County Homicide Task Force and thanked the public for the assistance provided during the investigation. “For weeks, detectives have methodically pieced the puzzle together, identifying the vehicle and all three suspects. But the help of the public in solving this double homicide was instrumental,” he stated. “It allowed us to follow leads from the very beginning, helping to point investigators in the right direction and allowing them to connect the dots.”
Mercer County Deputy First Assistant Prosecutors Kathleen M. Petrucci and Michael C. Borgos prosecuted the cases for the state.
The investigation was led by the Mercer County Homicide Task Force and Sgt. Richard Sheppard of the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office. Thompson was represented by John McMahon, Esq. and Matthew Mordas, Esq. Hamilton was represented by Mark Fury, Esq.
Treizon Thompson
Tyzir Hamilton
See original MidJersey.News stories on the murders here:
Names Released In This Morning’s Double Shooting
300 block of Center Street FILE Photos by: Brian McCarthy OnScene News
Mercer County Jury Finds Trenton Man Guilty in August 2020 Double Homicide
Trenton Man Guilty In August 2020 Double Homicide; Faces Life Imprisonment
January 3, 2024–Updated at 3:00 p.m.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Trenton Police Department, Public Information Officer, Detective Lieutenant Brian Jones stated that the preliminary investigation is that a dump truck rear-ended another dump truck, causing a collision with a third dump truck. Police have reported that there has been one fatality. The two other dump truck drivers are being treated for minor injuries at Capital Health Regional Medical Center. No other vehicles were involved. The identity of the deceased is being withheld pending notification of next of kin. Trenton Police and the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office are on scene and investigating.
Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora says to avoid Route 129 between Lalor and Cass is shut down in both directions due to a collision involving 3 dump trucks with one overturned.
Today, January 3, 2024, around 12:15 p.m. Trenton Radio Room 9-1-1 operators were reciving multiple calls for multiple dump truck crash on Route 129 between Cass Street and Lalor Streets. Trenton Police, Trenton Fire Department, TEMS and Paramedics were detailed to the scene. Trenton Fire Department reported extended rescue operations at the scene around 12:26 p.m. A person was reported extricated about 12:30 p.m. from one of the dump trucks.
NJ DOT Traffic Camera photo
December 30, 2023
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Several hundred history buffs turned out this morning (Saturday, Dec. 30, 2023) to view the annual reenactment of the first Battle of Trenton, which took place on Dec. 26, 1776. Ending in a victory for Gen. George Washington and the Continental Army, the battle is considered the turning point of the American Revolution.
Armed with a canon and muskets, actors portraying soldiers of both sides kicked off the reenactment just after 11 a.m. from the area of the Battle Monument and marched down Broad Street to Mill Hill Park.
A reenactment of the Second Battle of Trenton (which took place on Jan. 2, 1777) was scheduled to take place in Mill Hill Park at 3 p.m.
Read more about the Dec 26, 1776 battle here
December 23, 2023
TRENTON (Mercer) – Several people were displaced by a blaze that damaged two rowhouses Saturday afternoon (Dec. 23, 2023). It was the third working fire in Trenton in less than 24 hours.
It was just after 3 p.m. on Saturday when Trenton firefighters were alerted to a possible structure fire in the 100 block of Washington Street. A column of smoke rising up over the area signaled a working fire to responding firefighters.
Heavy smoke was billowing from the second and third floors of 133 Washington Street as firefighters from Engines 7, 3, 10 and 6, Ladders 4 and 2, Rescue 1 and Special Services 1 arrived on scene.
While all visible fire was quickly extinguished, firefighters spent some time opening up walls to expose and then douse hot spots after it was confirmed the fire had spread to the attached home at 131 Washington Street. The blaze was officially declared under control at 3:31 p.m.
While there were no reported injuries, the Red Cross was called out to assist a woman and four men who were left temporarily homeless because of the blaze.
On Friday night (Dec. 22), Trenton firefighters responded to a working fire in the rear of the vacant house at 13 Trent Street, and then fought a stubborn and very smoky blaze in an abandoned commercial building in the 300 block of North Olden Avenue.
The Trent Street blaze was reported just after 5:05 p.m. Friday as several companies of firefighters were already in the area investigating a reported odor of natural gas in a home in the 1500 block of Princeton Avenue.
As a result, crews from Rescue 1 and Engine 10 – released from the Princeton Avenue assignment – arrived on Trent Street very quickly and were able to easily subdue the blaze. They were assisted by Engines 8, 7 and 3, Ladders 4 and 2, and Special Services 1.
Later on Friday, just after 7:40 p.m., firefighters were alerted to a reported fire in a commercial building in the area of Dickinson Street and North Olden Avenue.
Coincidentally, several city fire companies were already busy investigating another odor of natural gas at a high-rise apartment building in the 500 block of Greenwood Avenue, so it was Engines 6, 1, 8 and 10, Ladders 4 and 1, Rescue 1 and Special Services 1 that were sent to the reported fire.
Those companies arrived to find smoke issuing from an abandoned commercial property that at first was believed to have a Taylor Street address but was eventually identified as 323 North Olden Avenue.
Firefighters had to cut a fence to gain access to the property. They soon confirmed that the fire was not in the large structure that dominated the site but was instead in a smaller, separate building on the property.
The incident commander reported that a large quantity of trash was burning in a pit inside the building and that heavy machinery from the city’s public works department would be needed to break up the pile to allow firefighters to get water on the material smoldering at the bottom of the pile.
Firefighters operated on scene for over three hours. Some companies were released, while others – including Engine 8 and Ladder 2 – were rotated in to assist with suppression operations. The blaze was officially declared under control about 10:45 p.m., a little over half-an-hour after a public works backhoe arrived to tear apart the pile of trash.
The causes of all three blazes were under investigation by city fire and police officials.
13 Trent Street
300 block of North Olden Avenue
100 block of Washington Street
December 16, 2023
TRENTON (Mercer) – A vehicle ended up on its side after it struck at least one parked car along Spruce Street this evening (Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023). The accident occurred shortly before 8:30 p.m. on Spruce Street between Brunswick and Princeton avenues. As Spruce Street is the border between Trenton and Lawrence, police and emergency personnel from both municipalities responded. The driver of the vehicle was not trapped and, having sustained only minor injuries, declined medical assistance from the Trenton EMS and Capital Health paramedics on scene. Trenton police were investigating the cause of the crash.
December 11, 2023
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–On Thursday December 7, 2023 at approximately 11:20 P.M., Officers were detailed to the Fast Trac gas station on the 1100 block of Chambers Street on a report of a Robbery that just occurred. Officers Gigliotti and Gilleo arrived on scene and located the victim who stated the suspect walked into the store, around the counter and began taking money out of the cash register. The victim attempted to stop the suspect but the suspect began striking the victim several times in the face. The suspect fled the store on foot with an unknown amount of money. The Officers put out a description of the suspect to responding unit. Officers Avanzato, Mutek, Vitoritt, and Cuffman located the suspect near East Brown Street and Bergen Street.
When Officers attempted to stop the suspect, he fled on foot. After a brief foot pursuit, the Officers were able to place the suspect under arrest. He was identified as Christian Carado, 19, of Trenton. Officers also located $170 in cash in his possession.
Carado was charged with Robbery, Burglary, Obstructing the Administration of Law, Resisting Arrest, and Simple Assault.
Anyone with any information regarding this incident is asked to contact Officer Frank LaVacca of the Hamilton Police Division Major Crimes Unit at (609) 581-4080 or the Hamilton Police Crime Tip Hotline at (609) 581-4008.
Christian Carado, 19, Trenton. Carado was charged with Robbery, Burglary, Obstructing the Administration of Law, Resisting Arrest, and Simple Assault according to Hamilton Police.
December 11, 2023
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–The Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Trenton Police Department are seeking the public’s assistance with identifying a September 2023 Trenton homicide victim.
At approximately 4:20 p.m. on Thursday, September 28, 2023, Trenton police were detailed to the 500 block of Chestnut Avenue on the Swan Street side of an abandoned parking lot where they discovered an unresponsive Hispanic male with several large lacerations to his head and face. He was found next to an abandoned delivery truck that was parked in the lot and pronounced dead at the scene. Following an autopsy conducted by the Middlesex Regional Medical Examiner’s Office, the death was determined to be a homicide.
The New Jersey State Police Forensic Photography and Composite Artist Unit created the attached composite sketch of the male victim. Anyone with information about this case or the identity of this victim is asked to contact MCHTF Detective Andrew DiStefano at (609) 346-1402 or Sgt. Roberto Reyes at (609) 256-0997. Information can also be emailed to [email protected]. Anonymous tips are welcome.
6/11/2023 Andre Clark, Blunt Force Trauma from incident on September 25, 2022
6/15/2023 James Junior Journigan, 36, Shooting
6/15/2023 Louis Washington, 38, Trenton, Shooting, (died June 17)
6/19/2023 Ernest Denard, 61, Stabbing
6/22/2023 Guillermo Sanchez, Shooting
7/01/2023 Precious Saunders, 32, of Trenton
8/23/2023 Taquan Foxworth, 29, of Trenton, Shooting 8/19
9/02/2023 Ronald Taylor, 40, of Trenton, Shooting
9/16/2023 Balil Lewis, 37, of Trenton, Shooting
9/28/2023 Unidentified Male Homicide Chestnut Avenue
10/19/2023 Corey Jones, 40, of Trenton, Stabbing
11/24/2023 Leroy Tutt, 37, of Trenton Shooting
Trenton Murders Per Year Since 1989
NJ State Police Uniform Crime Report available here: https://www.njsp.org/ucr/uniform-crime-reports.shtml
1989 = 22
1990 = 21
1991 = 7
1992 = 16
1993 = 11
1994 = 9
1995 = 16
1996 = 14
1997 = 12
1998 = 15
1999 = 8
2000 = 14
2001 = 13
2002 = 19
2003 = 13
2004 = 18
2005 = 31
2006 = 18
2007 = 25
2008 = 19
2009 = 18
2010 = 15
2011 = 23
2012 = 24
2013 = 37
2014 = 32
2015 = 17
2016 = 21
2017 = 23
2018 = 16
2019 = 15
2020 = 40
2021 = 40
2022 = 23
2023 = 27 as of November 27, 2023 **
* Prior to 1989 the known highest murder number was 1970 with 27
** Known as of November 24, 2023
*** NJ State Police Crime Statistics have not been updated since 2020
December 6, 2023
TRENTON (Mercer) – One person has died as a result of the smoky two-alarm fire that erupted at the Trent Center West high-rise apartment building Saturday afternoon (Dec. 2, 2023).
Michelle Miller, 51, who suffered from severe smoke inhalation prior to being rescued from the blaze, passed away in hospital this week, Detective Lt. Brian Jones told MidJersey News.
Jones, public information officer for the Trenton Police Department, said the cause of the fire remains under investigation at this time, but he added that it is not believed to be suspicious in nature.
The blaze in the 15-story building at 465 Greenwood Avenue broke out in an apartment on the first floor and was reported about 1:25 p.m. on Saturday. While the flames themselves were quickly extinguished by firefighters, heavy smoke filled hallways and stairwells all the way up to the top floor.
Numerous rescues were made by firefighters, who also safely evacuated scores of elderly residents who were not hurt. EMS personnel from Trenton and surrounding towns rushed those who were injured to area hospitals. Several of those who were hurt were described as being in critical condition at the time.
In a post on Facebook, Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora reported that eight people were transported to hospitals, and that two firefighters were hurt. At this time, the conditions of the other victims were not disclosed by authorities.
2-Alarm Fire With Multiple Injuries Reported at Trent Center West
New Jersey Historic Trust Awards $3 Million to Non-Profit 120 East State to Convert 200-Year-old Trenton Presbyterian Church into Community
120 East State seeks other support to make $25 million project a reality
December 6, 2023
Trenton, NJ (MERCER) – – On December 5, 120 East State, the non-profit converting the historic First Presbyterian Church of Trenton (FPCT) complex in downtown Trenton, announced that the New Jersey State Historic Trust awarded it $3 million to transform the 300-year-old site into the Steeple Center, a community-oriented performing arts center and space for nonprofit and for-profit entities to use.
The First Presbyterian Trenton congregation has seeded the project with its first $1 million dollar gift. The New Jersey Historic Trust and the James Kerney Foundation each made 2022 early investments of $825,000 and $5,000 respectively. 120 East State formed in 2022 to repurpose the church, on the National Historic Register, with its other buildings and grounds. FPCT was the site of fighting during George Washington’s victory at the Battle of Trenton on Christmas Day, 1776. Its graveyard is believed to contain the graves of American and Hessian mercenary soldiers fighting for the British, including Hessian commander Maj. Johan Rall, and the first U.S. Army chaplain to die in battle, the Rev. John Rosbrugh.
“Trenton is a historic city that we all love, and we want to preserve our history. I am pleased that First Presbyterian Church of Trenton will transform itself into the Steeple Center for Culture and the Arts,” said Mayor Gusciora. “This is a unique opportunity to preserve this historic edifice for future generations and will certainly play a large role in the upcoming celebration of America’s 250 Anniversary. Special thanks are in order for The First Presbyterian Trenton congregation, New Jersey Historic Trust, and the James Kerney Foundation for their early contributions to make this project a reality.”
“When we come together, we can make great things happen, but we must recognize the greatness in our wealth. Our City is rich in its history, and that’s what we realize here. When we’re doing things to make sure our history doesn’t fall by the wayside, it makes a difference not just for me or you, but for everyone,” said City Council President West Ward Councilwoman Teska Frisby.
“This is a tremendous day for the Steeple Center and for the community it will serve here in the heart of Trenton,” Cherry Oakley, 120 East State Board President, said. “We are deeply grateful for the grant from the New Jersey Historic Trust and, of course, to the congregation of First Presbyterian Church and Coastlands Presbytery, whose lease allows us to launch this conversion.”
“While this is a really important milestone, it is only one step,” Oakley said. “We continue to need support to make the Steeple Center a reality for our community and Trenton. This is a great space, but the main church building, almost 200 years old, is showing its age. Job one is to get the buildings up to snuff so we can move forward together with our neighbors.”
“We anticipate that converting from an historic church into the Steeple Center for Arts and Culture will cost about $25 million dollars, which includes the renovation and construction costs of the historic site, and the further development of 120 East State, so it can steward and operate the property,” Molly Dykstra, Project Leader, said.
120 East State will contribute to the revitalization of the surrounding community. Its intention is to become a sustainable source of jobs for local residents while creating opportunities that foster meaningful connections between Trenton residents and visitors, all while highlighting the important history of this property.
December 5, 2023
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–MidJersey News is saddened to report the passing of our friend and colleague, veteran news photographer/videographer Brian McCarthy, who died on Nov. 28, 2023 following a brief hospital stay. Brian was a loyal supporter of MidJersey News from the beginning and his photos have featured prominently on this site over the past four years.
In a career that spanned nearly 50 years, Brian photographed presidents and politicians, Hollywood actors and rock stars, race car drivers and athletes. He photographed combat overseas and peaceful protests closer to home. He photographed community events, charity fundraisers and parades.
But he was best known for his photos and videos showing the work of firefighters, police, emergency medical professionals, the military, and other first responders in the Mercer County area. Brian responded to fires, crashes, crimes and other breaking news incidents not because he wanted to exploit such tragedies. Instead, he did so because – through his camera lens – he wanted to document the positive things that emergency services personnel do day in and day out. He wanted the public to see the heroism and humanity of first responders in the face of such horrors.
For this work, Brian earned the respect of many in the emergency services community. Tributes to Brian and memories of him are being posted on his Facebook page by active and retired firefighters, police officers, and EMTs, as well as longtime friends and fans.
Brian worked as an assignment photographer for United Press International and as a longtime freelancer for both of Trenton’s daily newspapers and other publications. He was also a publisher in his own right, having printed various community news publications over the years. In the digital age, his work has appeared all over Facebook and YouTube.
“I’m Brian McCarthy and you’re on scene with me at… Let’s see what’s going on.” That was how Brian usually introduced his videos. In those videos, Brian always sought to inform and educate his viewing public about what was going on and how emergency personnel were working to save the day.
A native of Massachusetts, Brian and his family moved to New Jersey after his father – Walter “Pep” McCarthy, previously the head football coach at Boston Latin School – was hired as the freshman football coach at Princeton University in 1960. After 10 seasons coaching, “Pep” McCarthy assumed top administrative roles in Princeton University’s athletics department.
Sadly, Brian’s mother Ruth passed away in 1973 and his father was killed in a car crash in 1977. MidJersey extends our condolences to Brian’s daughter Shannon, his sister Lauren and his brother Sean.
December 4, 2023
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–In recognition of their efforts to combat youth homelessness in New Jersey, Anchor House, a Trenton-based nonprofit, has been honored with the Bank of America Neighborhood Builders® Award. This accolade comes with a multi-year grant of $200,000, allowing Anchor House to enhance their existing programs and extend their impact in Mercer County.
Anchor House has been at the forefront of preventing and ending youth homelessness while preparing youth to live productive and independent lives for 45 years. The nonprofit provides the only youth shelter, transitional living, and street outreach program targeting youth in Mercer County, and one of two supportive housing programs in the county for young adults.
The grant from Bank of America will assist in hiring staff and opening a clinical department to increase mental and behavioral health services in Mercer County, expand the Rapid Rehousing Program and explore direct leasing through building acquisition/ownership, purchase a programmatic database and more.
“This year, Anchor House is celebrating 45 years of service to prevent and end youth homelessness in Mercer County,” said Kim McNear, executive director, Anchor House. “A recent report shows that there was a 34% increase in homelessness in Mercer County between 2022 and 2023 and that in 2023, 28% of those experiencing homelessness in this community were youth under 18, demonstrating the need for Anchor House’s programs. This impactful grant from Bank of America will help us continue to provide hope and life-changing programs to hundreds of youth, while also executing our three-year strategic plan.”
In addition to the financial support, Anchor House will receive comprehensive leadership training for both its executive director and an emerging leader within the organization. The training will cover various topics, including financial sustainability, human capital management, and strategic storytelling.
“Anchor House and CUMAC address significant needs in our New Jersey communities,” said Alberto Garofalo, president, Bank of America New Jersey. “Providing these nonprofits with flexible funding and leadership training not only positions them for sustainable, long-term success, but also demonstrates our commitment to creating real change in the places where we live and work.”
Bank of America’s Neighborhood Builders® is an invitation-only highly competitive program and one of the largest philanthropic investments into nonprofit leadership development in the nation. Nonprofits are selected by a committee comprised of community leaders and past Builders awardees. In New Jersey, 40 nonprofits have been selected as Neighborhood Builders since 2004, with the bank investing $8 million into these local organizations.
Since 2004, Bank of America has invested more than $300 million in nearly 100 communities across the U.S., partnered with more than 1,600 nonprofits, and helped more than 3,000 nonprofit leaders strengthen their leadership skills through the Neighborhood Builders and Champions program.
December 2, 2023
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Several people were critically injured by a two-alarm fire that damaged at least one apartment and sent smoke to the upper floors of a high rise building this afternoon (Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023).
Exact details of how many people were hurt were not immediately available but radio traffic from the incident commander and other emergency personnel on scene indicated that at least three victims went into cardiac arrest at the scene and were rushed to area hospitals. A victim with severe burns was also reported, however it was unclear if that person was among the three said to have gone into cardiac arrest.
Several Trenton fire companies were already busy on other assignments when the blaze at the 15-story Trent Center West apartment building at 465 Greenwood Avenue was reported about 1:25 p.m. and Engines 3, 10, and 6, Ladders 2 and 4, Rescue 1, and Battalion 7 were dispatched. Engine 1, Special Services 2 and Battalion 3 were then dispatched as the balance of the first alarm after first-due firefighters arrived and confirmed a working fire on the first floor.
At 1:52 p.m. a second alarm was transmitted which sent Ladder 1 to the scene, along with a mutual aid ladder company from Hamilton, an engine company from Lawrence and Signal 22.
Capital Health paramedics and Trenton EMS personnel called for mutual aid ambulances from Ewing, Hamilton, and elsewhere to help treat and transport as firefighters located victims amid the smoke and carried them outside. At least one firefighter reportedly suffered a minor injury and was treated on scene.
Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire but with smoke having spread all the way to the upper floors it took considerable time to check all floors and evacuate residents from the most smoke-filled areas. Several additional victims were reportedly located on upper floors and assisted down to the lobby and outside. A large crowd of displaced residents gathered in the parking lot and watched while emergency personnel worked. The fire was officially declared under control at 2:57 p.m. City, county and state fire and law enforcement investigators were still on the scene as of 5 p.m. probing the cause of the blaze.
Photos below: Anthony Greco
November 30, 2023
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on November 14, 2023, Michael Wormann, 38 of Toms River, Ryan Thompson, 35, of Trenton, and Tina Martinez, 61, also of Trenton, were charged with Strict Liability Drug Induced Death, in connection with the death of a 55-year-old male in Berkeley Township on September 29, 2023.
On September 29, 2023, Officers from the Berkeley Township Police Department responded to a residence on Torrey Pines Drive for a report of an unresponsive male. Upon arrival, Officers discovered the body of the victim – already deceased from an apparent drug overdose.
A continuing investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, and Berkeley Township Police Department Detective Bureau, revealed that Wormann, Thompson, and Martinez, were involved in the distribution of Fentanyl to the victim on September 28, 2023.
On September 30, 2023, Wormann was initially charged with Distribution of Fentanyl, Possession of Less than One-Half Ounce of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute, and Possession of Fentanyl. He was taken into custody without incident at his residence by Berkeley Township Police Officers, and released on a summons pending a future appearance in Ocean County Superior Court.
On October 17, 2023, Martinez was initially charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl. She was taken into custody without incident at her residence in Trenton, transported to New Jersey State Police Headquarters in Trenton, and released on a summons pending a future appearance in Ocean County Superior Court.
On October 20, 2023, Thompson was likewise charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl. He was taken into custody without incident at his residence in Trenton, and subsequently transported to the Ocean County Jail where he was lodged pending a detention hearing.
Further investigation and toxicology analysis recently received by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed the presence of fentanyl in the victim’s system. Based upon the toxicology analysis, the Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office opined that the fentanyl found in the victim’s system was the cause of his death. As a consequence, Wormann, Thompson and Martinez were all charged with Strict Liability Induced Death on November 14, 2023.
On November 14, 2023, Thompson was served with the additional charge as noted above by way of warrant at the Ocean County Jail, where he remains detained pending trial.
On November 15, 2023, Wormann surrendered himself on the additional charge at Berkeley Township Police Headquarters. He was processed, transported to the Ocean County Jail, and subsequently released as a consequence of New Jersey Bail Reform.
On November 30, 2023, Martinez was taken into custody without incident on the new charge at her residence in Trenton by Detectives from the Berkeley Township Police Department and Trenton City Police Department. She was transported to the Ocean County Jail, where she presently remains lodged pending a detention hearing.
Prosecutor Billhimer commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, Berkeley Township Police Department, Berkeley Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Trenton City Police Department, New Jersey State Police, and Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office, for their combined and collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation.
The charges referenced above are merely accusations and the press and public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
R.P.C. 3.6(b)(6).
November 28, 2023
TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on November 24, 2023, William Gleason, 68, of South Toms River, was charged with two counts of Aggravated Sexual Assault, Sexual Assault, Aggravated Criminal Sexual Contact, and two counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child.
An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit and South Toms River Police Department Detective Bureau revealed that between 2015 and 2020, Gleason sexually assaulted a minor victim who resided in his home. As such, Gleason was charged with the aforementioned offenses on November 24, 2023; he surrendered himself at South Toms River Police Headquarters on November 25, 2023, and was subsequently transported to the Ocean County Jail where he is presently lodged pending a detention hearing.
“Although the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office does not typically issue press releases in matters such as this due to their sensitive nature and out of respect for the victim’s privacy, Gleason’s previous position as head of the South Toms River Recreation Commission, and perhaps more importantly his former role as a foster parent, necessitated this particular alert to the public. I urge anyone in possession of information concerning this investigation, or any additional information concerning this defendant’s conduct, to contact Detective Delaney Huber of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office at 732-929-2027, extension 3218, or Detective Timothy Meier of the South Toms River Police Department at 732-363-0200, extension 112,” stated Prosecutor Billhimer.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, and South Toms River Police Department Detective Bureau, for their combined assistance in connection with this investigation.
The charges referenced above are merely accusations and the press and public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER) – Two Trenton men were sentenced this week to 60 years in state prison each without parole, Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri announced.
Treizon Thompson, 23, and Tyzir Hamilton, 22, were sentenced by Mercer County Superior Judge Peter E. Warshaw in separate appearances on January 4, 2024. Both men were sentenced to two 30-year sentences with a mandatory 30-year period of parole ineligibility. Warshaw granted the state’s request to run the sentences consecutively for a total of 60 years in state prison.
At their respective trials in December 2022 and September 2023, Thompson and Hamilton were found guilty by Mercer County juries on all counts of the indictment, including two counts of murder, conspiracy to commit murder, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose and unlawful possession of a handgun.
On August 9, 2020, at approximately 7:30 a.m., patrol officers with the Trenton Police Department responded to the area of 300 Centre Street for a shooting in progress. Upon arrival, officers located the first victim, William Irizarry, 18, lying on the street in the area of 339 Centre Street. He had sustained multiple gunshot wounds throughout his body and was pronounced dead at the scene. The second victim, Julius Vargas, 18, was located inside a corner market with a gunshot wound. Vargas was transported to the hospital for treatment, however, succumbed to his injuries a short time later.
HTF detectives were able to locate a witness and numerous cameras in the area of the shooting. A suspect vehicle was identified as a black Chrysler 300 with PA plates, along with two shooters, described as two black males wearing all black clothing and black ski masks. The black Chrysler 300 was seen circling the area before the shooting, then parking and watching the victims for several minutes as they stood on the corner with others. When the suspect vehicle drove up to the corner and stopped, two shooters, later identified as Thompson and Tyzir Hamilton, exited. Both ran toward the victims, firing multiple gunshots. The driver, later identified as Darnell Davis, remained in the car. Hamilton and Thompson then chased after Irizarry as he ran into the street, continuing to shoot at him. When Irizarry fell to the ground after suffering a gunshot wound, they both continued to shoot at him as he lay on the ground. Afterward, Hamilton and Thompson returned to the suspect vehicle, which fled.
Further investigation revealed that a black Chrysler 300 was stolen out of Bensalem, Pennsylvania, on August 3, 2020, and seen on an automated license plate reader camera in the area of Pennington Avenue and Reservoir Street in Trenton on August 4. Detectives were able to partially match the license plate of the suspect vehicle to that of the stolen vehicle out of Bensalem.
The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Computer Crimes Unit conducted a physical search and forensic examination of Irizarry’s cell phone, pursuant to a search warrant, and a photo was found that Irizarry posted on his Facebook page disrespecting the H-Block gang. Detectives continued to monitor multiple public social media posts throughout the month of August of numerous H-Block gang members talking about the murders of Irizarry and Vargas, taunting and threatening friends and family of the victims. They also referenced Irizarry disrespecting the H-Block gang prior to being murdered.
On September 1, 2020, while on surveillance during another investigation, HTF detectives observed the black Chrysler 300 with Pennsylvania plates driving in the area of Perry and Southard streets in Trenton. While detectives were attempting to identify the occupants, the vehicle took off at a high rate of speed and a pursuit ensued. The pursuit came to an end on Reservoir Street near Frazier Street, where the vehicle crashed into a telephone pole and the occupants subsequently escaped on foot. Area surveillance footage shows the vehicle crash into the pole. Two black males exited the vehicle through the front passenger door, both wearing all black with their hoods up. The black males fled on Reservoir Street toward Frazier Street and subsequently made a right onto Frazier Street toward Pennington Avenue, then out of sight.
A search warrant was obtained for the vehicle and detectives located a fully-loaded, 9mm Taurus handgun under the driver’s seat. The handgun was submitted to the New Jersey State Police Laboratory and identified as one of the guns used in the murders of Irizarry and Vargas. Further investigation revealed another witness who was able to identify Davis, Hamilton and Thompson as being responsible for the deaths of Irizarry and Vargas.
At the time of the arrest of all three suspects in October 2020, Prosecutor Onofri praised the investigative work of the Mercer County Homicide Task Force and thanked the public for the assistance provided during the investigation. “For weeks, detectives have methodically pieced the puzzle together, identifying the vehicle and all three suspects. But the help of the public in solving this double homicide was instrumental,” he stated. “It allowed us to follow leads from the very beginning, helping to point investigators in the right direction and allowing them to connect the dots.”
Mercer County Deputy First Assistant Prosecutors Kathleen M. Petrucci and Michael C. Borgos prosecuted the cases for the state.
The investigation was led by the Mercer County Homicide Task Force and Sgt. Richard Sheppard of the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office. Thompson was represented by John McMahon, Esq. and Matthew Mordas, Esq. Hamilton was represented by Mark Fury, Esq.
Treizon Thompson
Tyzir Hamilton
See original MidJersey.News stories on the murders here:
Names Released In This Morning’s Double Shooting
300 block of Center Street FILE Photos by: Brian McCarthy OnScene News
Mercer County Jury Finds Trenton Man Guilty in August 2020 Double Homicide
Trenton Man Guilty In August 2020 Double Homicide; Faces Life Imprisonment
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Several people were critically injured by a two-alarm fire that damaged at least one apartment and sent smoke to the upper floors of a high rise building this afternoon (Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023).
Exact details of how many people were hurt were not immediately available but radio traffic from the incident commander and other emergency personnel on scene indicated that at least three victims went into cardiac arrest at the scene and were rushed to area hospitals. A victim with severe burns was also reported, however it was unclear if that person was among the three said to have gone into cardiac arrest.
Several Trenton fire companies were already busy on other assignments when the blaze at the 15-story Trent Center West apartment building at 465 Greenwood Avenue was reported about 1:25 p.m. and Engines 3, 10, and 6, Ladders 2 and 4, Rescue 1, and Battalion 7 were dispatched. Engine 1, Special Services 2 and Battalion 3 were then dispatched as the balance of the first alarm after first-due firefighters arrived and confirmed a working fire on the first floor.
At 1:52 p.m. a second alarm was transmitted which sent Ladder 1 to the scene, along with a mutual aid ladder company from Hamilton, an engine company from Lawrence and Signal 22.
Capital Health paramedics and Trenton EMS personnel called for mutual aid ambulances from Ewing, Hamilton, and elsewhere to help treat and transport as firefighters located victims amid the smoke and carried them outside. At least one firefighter reportedly suffered a minor injury and was treated on scene.
Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire but with smoke having spread all the way to the upper floors it took considerable time to check all floors and evacuate residents from the most smoke-filled areas. Several additional victims were reportedly located on upper floors and assisted down to the lobby and outside. A large crowd of displaced residents gathered in the parking lot and watched while emergency personnel worked. The fire was officially declared under control at 2:57 p.m. City, county and state fire and law enforcement investigators were still on the scene as of 5 p.m. probing the cause of the blaze.
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–Robbinsville Township Council appointed Harold “Hal” English to the governing body to fill the unexpired term of Mike Cipriano at tonight’s Special Public Meeting.
English is a Town Center resident, served as the Township’s Director of Economic and Community Development from 2017-2020, is a former member of the Robbinsville Township Planning Board as well as the Economic Development Advisory Committee (EDAC).
More recently, English served as the Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber of Commerce President and CEO.
“We are extremely grateful to the men and women who expressed their desire for the open Township Council position,” President Debbie Blakely said. “These are all residents who truly care about our community and want to give back. After reviewing all the applicants, we made the decision to appoint Hal English. Hal has been active in our community for many years and knows Robbinsville very well. He held a key position at the Township and has a plethora of experience in finance, planning, zoning, and redevelopment. We know he will bring great ideas to the table and will work well with all of us. We are very much looking forward to him joining our team.”
In addition to a career steeped in local banking, Mr. English also served as Business Administrator, Director of Technology and Economic Development as well as Acting Mayor of Hamilton, where he played an integral role in the development of the highly successful Hamilton Marketplace and its 1 million square feet of retail space on Route 130 North.
Six-Month Investigation Yields 18 Arrests, Guns, $228,000 in Drugs
TRENTON (MERCER): Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri today announced that a six month, multi-jurisdictional investigation of narcotics distribution and violent crime in the Mercer County area has culminated with the arrest of 18 individuals and the seizure of approximately 1,000 grams of heroin, 1,000 grams of methamphetamine, 15 pounds of marijuana, 11 guns, six vehicles and more than $22,000 in cash.
“Operation Eight-Ball was an enormous investigative endeavor and as a result, many violent offenders have been taken off of the street,” said Prosecutor Onofri. “I cannot thank our many law enforcement partners enough for their dedication and assistance in providing safer neighborhoods for the residents of Trenton and Mercer County.”
“Our law enforcement challenges this year required a coordinated plan, and I’m thankful for the city, county, state, and federal officers who stepped up to make Trenton a safer place to live,” said Trenton Police Director Sheilah A. Coley. “In just this operation alone, their hard work yielded multiple firearms, high-capacity magazines, kilograms of narcotics, and more than 15 arrests, six of which are connected to several homicides. This multi-tiered response awaits any criminal group that seeks to plague our streets with drugs and violence.”
“This investigation makes clear the violence associated with drug trafficking,” said Susan A. Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Jersey Division. “Those targeted in this investigation brought violence and misery to the residents of Mercer County. Their arrests have made the community safer, and DEA will continue to work with our partners to pursue those who violate the law.”
“In the spring of 2020, as the number of shootings and homicides in Trenton began increasing at an alarming rate, we set out to expose trends and connections that might be responsible for triggering the uptick in violence,” said Prosecutor Onofri.
The Mercer County Narcotics Task Force, the Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Economic Crime Unit, along with the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and many state, county and local police agencies, began their hard-hitting investigation a short time later and dubbed the job “Operation Eight-Ball,” representing the eight-ball logo used by Trenton’s H-Block, a violent criminal street gang responsible for numerous shootings and murders in the city. According to Prosecutor Onofri, the initial investigation focused on the alleged drug activities of H-Block, and through informant information, controlled buys, surveillances and intelligence, authorities were able to obtain and execute more than 40 warrants of individuals, vehicles and locations in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
On November 4, 2020, search warrants were executed and arrests were made as this investigation progressed. On this day, an undercover officer made arrangements to purchase a quantity of heroin from Joseph Kaite. After conducting the narcotics transaction with the undercover detective at a gas station on North Olden Avenue in Trenton, detectives attempted to arrest Kaite, however, he fled in his vehicle. When detectives attempted to stop Kaite, he collided with a police vehicle causing heavy damage to both vehicles. He then attempted to flee on foot but was apprehended after a brief struggle. Also arrested inside the vehicle were Vincent Bowman and Zaire Jones. Search warrants related to the investigation were subsequently executed and detectives located 30 bricks of heroin and a shotgun. At an apartment on Beakes Street in Trenton, detectives located evidence related to murder of Derek Colley that resulted in homicide charges being filed against Kaite and Tabika Hale.
The investigation continued into 2021 and last week, search warrants were executed at locations in Trenton and Ewing, New Jersey, and Bristol and Morrisville, Pennsylvania. Prior to the execution of these warrants, surveillance officers followed Deshawn Abner as he traveled by cab from Bond Street in Trenton to the Extended Stay Motel on Route 1 in West Windsor where Abner and a second individual, identified as Aziz Stroman, were
observed searching a wooded area around the hotel. After searching the area for about 30 minutes, Abner was seen retrieving a box containing 210 bricks of heroin from the bushes in the hotel parking lot. After retrieving the package, Abner entered the Mercedes Benz Stroman had arrived in, and the two men departed the area. Arrest teams converged on the area and both Abner and Stroman were eventually detained after attempting to flee. A search warrant for Stroman’s Mercedes Benz was obtained and detectives located 210 bricks of heroin on the front passenger floor. Both Abner and Stroman were charged with first-degree narcotic offenses.
After Abner and Stroman were taken into custody, detectives contacted officers in Pennsylvania who had an individual identified as Ricardo Moise under observation. Through the investigation, authorities had pinpointed Moise as the supplier of heroin to North Trenton. At that time, Moise was seen moving items out of his apartment on Beaver Street in Bristol Township, and detectives from the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, with assistance from Bucks County District Attorney’s Office and the Bristol Borough Police Department, arrested him for outstanding warrants as a result of distributing 75 bricks of heroin to an undercover officer in the spring of 2020. Search warrants were subsequently executed at related locations.
According to Prosecutor Onofri, the total retail value of the confiscated drugs is $228,000. The heroin is valued at $60,000; the methamphetamine is valued at $100,000; and the marijuana at $68,000.
In addition to the narcotics, authorities also seized 11 guns, six vehicles and approximately $22,000 in cash. Approximately 24 bank accounts in connection to the investigation were frozen and continue to be investigated by the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Economic Crime Unit.
As a result of this cooperative investigation, the following arrests were made with the listed charges:
Prince Attoh, 20, Trenton – Numerous narcotic-related offenses
Additionally, information obtained during Operation Eight-Ball directly linked Tyzir Hamilton, 19, Treizon Thompson, 20, and Darnell Davis, 19, to the murders of William Irizarry and Julius Vargas. Arrest warrants for the three defendants were obtained in October 2020 and search warrants were also executed at several locations, which led to the recovery of several weapons.
Operation Eight-Ball developed over six months of investigation. It initiated with the Mercer County Narcotics Task Force, the Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Economic Crime Unit, and received support and resources from 16 additional agencies including:
Drug Enforcement Administration
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Homeland Security Investigations
New Jersey State Police Crime Suppression Central
Mercer County Sheriff’s Office
Bucks County District Attorney’s Office (PA)
Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office
Ewing Police Department
Hamilton Police Department
Lawrence Police Department
Princeton Police Department
Robbinsville Police Department
Trenton Police Department
West Windsor Police Department
Bristol Borough Police Department (PA)
The College of New Jersey Police Department
In the interest of investigative security and pursuant to established court requirements, the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office is limited in discussing specific details regarding the ongoing investigation and the alleged conspiracies. Despite having been charged, all persons are presumed innocent until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Treizon Thompson, 20, of Trenton
Tyzir Hamilton, 19, of Trenton
Darnell Davis, 19, of Willingboro
Ricardo Moise, 31, Bristol, Pa.
Deshawn Abner, 31, Trenton
Daishawn Dickerson, 30, Trenton
Aziz Stroman, 31, Trenton
Joseph Kaite, 19, Trenton
Aniyah Boone, 20, Bensalem, Pa.
Aleque Williams-Dixon, 21, Blackwood 
Jaquane Leonard, 32, Trenton
Kashawn Batts, 33, Trenton
Kevonte Bivens, 23, Montgomery, Alabama 
Prince Attoh, 20, Trenton 
Tabika Hale, 26, Trenton 
Treizon Thompson, 20
Tyzir Hamilton, 19
Vincent Bowman, 20, Trenton
Darnell Davis, 19