UPDATE: Statement from Robbinsville Township Council Regarding BAPS Investigation
April 10, 2023
Members of Township Council are profoundly disturbed by the recent findings at dwellings on North Main Street and Voelbel Road. The conditions found within those buildings, the number of occupants residing there, along with the myriad of Fire Code and Uniform Construction Code violations are obviously unacceptable. The safety and well-being of all residents and visitors to Robbinsville Township is paramount, and we will continue to do everything within our power to hold the person(s) responsible for these violations accountable. As Mayor Dave Fried stated previously in media interviews, all the houses known to be boarding dozens of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha volunteers have been shut down with some deemed uninhabitable until all required repairs are completed, and inspections conducted. All Code violations found will be pursued in Municipal Court. Robbinsville Township Administration and the Police Department have referred the case to the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office. While outside agencies are investigating, including the FBI, we ask for your patience as they carefully and methodically review the case. While we understand people want to know all the details as soon as issues occur, that is not always possible because those pieces of information could very well disrupt and even derail an investigation. There is a team of people working hard every day to keep everyone safe. Please keep in mind Robbinsville officials, with the help of residents, initiated these raids. Please continue to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the Township Administration and our Police Department. Also feel free to reach out to us at [email protected].
JACKSON, NJ (OCEAN)–The Ocean County Sheriff’s Department is urging the public in Jackson Township to stay off the roads this evening due to multiple trees, poles, and wires down!
Jackson Mills Fire Company posted Jackson Twp has multiple trees and power lines down throughout the town. It is dark and you may not see many hazards that emergency services have not gotten to yet. Please stay home tonight and stay safe.
There are also numerous trees and wires down throughout Upper Freehold Township. Upper Freehold Township Emergency Management sent out a notice asking people to stay off the roads tonight around 8:33 p.m. not long after severe thunderstorms with possible tornados moved though the area. Wires poles down in the area of County Road 539, County Road 537, Ellisdale Road
The Wall Township Police Department along with Fire and EMS are responding to numerous calls for service. We have received numerous calls in reference wires down and trees down blocking the roadways. Please do not approach down wires. Please do not travel on roadways unless absolutely necessary
There are poles and wires down in the Crosswicks Hamilton Township area near South Broad Street. There were reports of numerous locations. If traveling in that area be careful tonight.
MidJersey.news has a reporter in Jackson and will be sending in updates. Check back for further details and photos.
UPDATE from Jackson Police Department
First and foremost we hope everyone is safe! There are ALOT of reports of damage throughout the entire town. We are aware of power outages and the power companies along with DPW and county are doing all they can to clean everything up and restore power.
All emergency services are working diligently to get this accomplished.
The following roads are closed at the moment:
– West Commodore Boulevard between Cedar Swamp Road and Diamond Road
– North Cooksbridge Road between Rose Dr and Willow Drive along with parts of South Cooksbridge Road.
We ASK that everyone please stay in doors and off the roads so clean up can be completed safely. Please don’t venture out to assess the damage, we will take care of that.
As always do not hesitate to call us if you need our assistance or emergency services! Please refrain from calling us about power outages as we are aware and our dispatchers are fielding a high volume of calls.
Thank you for your cooperation and stay safe!!!
Jackson Township, New Jersey after the storms tonight. Photo from the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office.
Photos below by: Ryan Mack, Jersey Shore Fire Response
Hail that fell in Robbinsville – Allentown – Upper Freehold Township area.
JACKSON, NJ (OCEAN)–Six Flags Great Adventure announced that they will be closed today due to the Jackson Township Emergency Declaration and for the safety of their guests and team members. Six Flags Great Adventure and Safari will be closed today April 2, 2023 and anticipates to reopen on Wednesday, April 5, 2023 for Spring Break.
UPDATES from Jackson Township Police Department:
We are aware the power is still out and it has been reported that over 9300 people are without power at this time. There is no ETA on when power will be restored.
PLEASE DO NOT call the police department about your power outage asking for updates. We do not know and our dispatchers are already overloaded with emergency calls for service.
The roads that were listed previously are still closed along with a section of West County Line Road between Bennetts Mills Road & Villanova Drive.
Everyone is working diligently to open roadways and assist JCP&L in any way with power restoration.
In addition there is a Declaration of Emergency in effect so please limit your usual traffic today so that emergency services can focus on getting everything back in order.
That being said if you need police assistance or have any type of emergency please do not hesitate to call us.
Stay Safe and we will update accordingly
Please DO NOT drive through Closed Roads, past barrels and cones, or Over Wires!
This is for everyone’s safety.
Thank you.
UPDATE From Ocean County Sheriff’s Office:
We are asking for the public’s assistance today. If you must travel in Jackson Township today to please avoid all road closures, obey traffic laws, and do not driver over any downed wires!!!
Numerous Roadways Closed In Central, NJ After Storms Move Through Area
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–On April 24, 2023 at 11:26 a.m. the Hamilton Police Division dispatch center received a call concerning a male that was just attacked with a machete and was in the Quick Chek collapsed on the ground.
The incident occurred at 1111 S. Olden Ave. (American Auto). The victim got into a verbal argument with Nicholas Schiaretti, during the altercation Mr. Schiaretti brandished a machete and struck the victim multiple times. The victim was transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center for treatment where he is recovering from his injuries. Mr. Schiaretti fled from the scene on foot but later turned himself into police custody.
Mr. Schiaretti was charged with criminal attempt homicide and weapons offenses and was transported to the Mercer County Correctional Center.
Anyone who has additional information can contact Detective M. Durand 609-581-5827.
All parties are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Suspect: Nicholas Schiaretti
Mr. Schiaretti was charged with criminal attempt homicide and weapons offenses and was transported to the Mercer County Correctional Center.
Slow down and move over. It’s the law!
April 25, 2023
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–In the aftermath of the terrifying incident involving Robbinsville Township Patrolman Connor Boyle Saturday night on Route 130, Director of Public Safety Dave Fried and Police Chief Michael Polaski would like to remind the public of the “Move Over Law” – New Jersey Statute 39:4-92.2 – which was enacted in 2009.
Every day, thousands of law enforcement officers and emergency personnel take to the streets to help keep the motoring public safe; putting their lives on the line to do so. One of the most dangerous aspects of a police officer’s job is stepping out of their vehicle and onto the roadway. Whether it is to conduct a motor vehicle stop, assist a disabled motorist, investigate a crash, or remove debris from the roadway, perils of all types are everywhere.
Statistics from 2011-2020 reveal that there have been 286 officer line-of-duty deaths due to vehicle crashes, and another 114 due to being struck by a vehicle.
These numbers are not only tragic, but they are often avoidable.
Research shows many drivers believe that moving over is simply an optional courtesy when they see law enforcement vehicles, other emergency vehicles, tow trucks and other public assistance vehicles on the side of the road. Let’s be clear: It is not optional. It is the law! We need to keep our first responders and vehicle assistance workers safe.
Let’s join together to protect those who protect you. The simple act of slowing down and moving over will prevent tragedies.
Slow down and move over. It’s the law!
New Jersey Statute 39:4-92.2
Procedure for motorist approaching certain stationary vehicle.
1. a. The operator of a motor vehicle approaching a stationary authorized emergency vehicle as defined in R.S.39:1-1 that is displaying a flashing, blinking or alternating red or blue light or, any configuration of lights containing one of these colors, shall approach the authorized emergency vehicle with due caution and shall, absent any other direction by a law enforcement officer, proceed as follows:
(1) Make a lane change into a lane not adjacent to the authorized emergency vehicle if possible in the existing safety and traffic conditions; or
(2) If a lane change pursuant to paragraph (1) of subsection a. of this section would be impossible, prohibited by law or unsafe, reduce the speed of the motor vehicle to a reasonable and proper speed for the existing road and traffic conditions, which speed shall be less than the posted speed limit, and be prepared to stop.
b. The operator of a motor vehicle approaching a stationary tow truck as defined in section 1 of P.L.1999, c.396 (C.39:3-84.6) that is displaying a flashing amber light, a stationary highway maintenance or emergency service vehicle that is operated by the State, an authority or a county or municipality and displaying flashing yellow, amber, or red lights, or a stationary sanitation vehicle displaying a flashing amber warning light pursuant to section 1 of P.L.2011, c.3 (C.39:3-54.27) shall approach the vehicle with due caution and shall, absent any other direction by a law enforcement officer, proceed as follows:
(1) Make a lane change into a lane not adjacent to the tow truck, highway maintenance or emergency service vehicle, or sanitation vehicle if possible in the existing safety and traffic conditions; or
(2) If a lane change under paragraph (1) of subsection b. of this section would be impossible, prohibited by law or unsafe, reduce the speed of the motor vehicle to a reasonable and proper speed for the existing road and traffic conditions, which speed shall be less than the posted speed limit, and be prepared to stop.
c. A violation of this section shall be punished by a fine of not less than $100 and not more than $500.
L. 2017, c.43, s.1.
Robbinsville Police release video of traffic assist where Robbinsville Police Officer Boyle was struck by a hit and run driver.
Robbinsville Township Patrolman Connor Boyle has been released from the hospital and is home recovering.
JACKSON, NJ (OCEAN)–The National Weather Service has confirmed four tornados in the area and storm surveys are ongoing to determine the details such as length and path width. The four tornadoes confirmed in New Jersey so far were in Jackson Township, Howell Township, Cinnaminson and Sea Girt.
In Jackson many residents and business were without power, homes and buildings were damaged and numerous trees and utility poles and equipment damaged. Many are still without power and a freezer truck is at the police station and residents can bring frozen items there for temporary storage. The trailer is being provided by the Chaveirm of Central Jersey and will be staffed If you have questions about the freezer truck call 1-973-907-3153
A shelter is set up at the Senior Center located on Don Connor Boulevard and is currently open and ready for anyone who may need it. The Red Cross is also stationed at Town Hall for anyone in need of fresh water for free.
The tornado damaged a tensioned membrane structure that houses Adventure Crossings Golf and Entertainement. There appeared to be a rip in the center of the membrane that allowed the structure to collapse since the membrane is supported by air. There were no reported injuries. These sports complexes are commonly known as sport “bubbles” since the lightweight membrane is supported by air.
A new warehouse near completion was destroyed by the tornado on April 1, 2023. The 95,000 square foot warehouse had walls collapse and roof removed destroying the building. The building is located in the 300 Block West Commodore Blvd.
An industrial building in the 400 Block of West Commodore Blvd. had a partial roof removal and tree damage.
Updates to follow, tornado strength, path, width should be available late tonight or tomorrow morning.
From Jersey Central Power and Light:
Power has been restored to about 33,000 out of the nearly 43,000 customers affected by the stormy weather that caused extensive tree damage, downed lines and broken poles, especially in the hardest-hit areas of Howell, Jackson and Lakewood. We expect to restore power to the majority of customers who remain without service by late tomorrow night.
We will provide updates for specific damage locations as they become available on our outage map: http://spr.ly/NJOutageMap. You can also call 888-544-4877 or text STAT to 544487 for updates specific to your outage.
As crews continue to clear hazards and restore service, customers are reminded to stay at least 30 feet away from all downed or low-hanging wires and report them ASAP to 9-1-1.
This is an all-hands-on-deck effort and we’ll be working 24/7 until service is restored to every customer. Thank you for hanging in there with us!
FREEZER TRAILER AVAILABLE TO ALL RESIDENTS. PACKAGE YOUR FROZEN ITEMS AS DIRECTED AND BRING THEM FOR TEMPORARY STORAGE.
For any questions call 1-973-907-3153
ALL RESIDENTS – SHELTER/WARMING CENTERIf you or anyone you know are without power and need somewhere warm for the evening with electricity while waiting for restoration, the township has set up a “Shelter In Place”.The shelter is the Senior Center located on Don Connor Boulevard and is currently open and ready for anyone who may need it. Please do not hesitate to take advantage of this location if needed. If a ride is needed, please contact the police department for assistance.Red Cross is also stationed at Town Hall for anyone in need of fresh water for free.
Stay Safe and thank you all for your patience. We will get through this together!
Storm damaged a tensioned membrane structure that houses Adventure Crossings Golf and Entertainement. There appeared to be a rip in the center of the membrane that allowed the structure to collapse since the membrane is supported by air. There were no reported injuries.
A new warehouse near completion was destroyed by the tornado on April 1, 2023. The 95,000 square foot warehouse had walls collapse and roof removed destroying the building. The building is located in the 300 Block West Commodore Blvd.
An industrial building in the 400 Block of West Commodore Blvd. had a partial roof removal and tree damage.
Numerous Roadways Closed In Central, NJ After Storms Move Through Area
Adventure Crossings Golf and Entertainement. Photos by: Ocean County Sherriff’s Office.
April 3, 2023 Update:
The National Weather Service will be conducting storm surveys in the area of Crosswicks/Hamilton and Cream Ridge, NJ
April 2, 2023
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)-UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The National Weather Service has not issued a tornado damage report for the areas damaged by yesterday’s storms for Hamilton and Upper Freehold Township. The line of damage starts prior to the Sawmill YMCA Day Camp and Miracle Filed for the Miracle League of Mercer County and continues a path of destruction for about 5 miles though Upper Freehold Township near the Cream Ridge Winery and past County Road 539 just north of the golf course. See map below designed by Brian K. from Twitter in regards to Midjersey.news post on the NWS Mount Holly Twitter.
So far there have been four confirmed tornados in New Jerey, Jackson Township, Sea Girt, Howell Township, and Cinnaminson. The damage in Hamilton and Upper Freehold Township has not been listed as of 8:00 p.m. April, 2.
The Miracle League of Mercer County, NJ was supposed to have an Opening Day and Easter Egg Hunt but had to be cancelled due to the storm damage at the Sawmill Road Facility.
Week 2 games originally scheduled for Wednesday, April 5 and Thursday, April 6 will also – unfortunately – be cancelled.
We will provide updates via email, text alert, and social media throughout the week.
Graphic from Twitter posted by Brian K
PSE&G workers replace a pole this morning, April 2, 2023, that was damaged by yesterday’s storm (April 1, 2023) on Groveville – Allentown Road.
Storm damage in Hamilton Township, Mercer County, NJ at the Sawmill YMCA Day Camp and Recreation Center, Miracle Filed, on Sawmill Road.
Storm damage in Upper Freehold Township, Monmouth County in the area of Walnford Road, Quaker Hill Road, Tyler Court, and Polhemustown Roads this afternoon. Many trees were damaged, trees on houses, and farm irrigation equipment damage.
April 2, 2023
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP (Mercer) – Township firefighters rescued a person who was trapped inside a burning home this morning (Sunday, April 2). The extent of the person’s injuries was not immediately known, but right after the individual was removed from the structure paramedics and other emergency medical personnel could be seen frantically treating the patient on the front lawn. A short time later, the person was transported to hospital by ambulance.
It was shortly before 11:15 a.m. when firefighters were alerted to the blaze at 133 Jeremiah Avenue, off Lalor Street. While en route to the scene, firefighters were alerted that a person was trapped inside a bedroom and that several neighbors were trying to get inside to attempt a rescue. Heavy smoke was issuing from the 1.5-story structure when fire companies arrived. Firefighters mounted an immediate search and rescue, combined with an aggressive interior attack, and managed to quickly locate and remove the victim. Firefighters reported encountering heavy fire conditions in the rear of the home.
The fire was declared under control at 11:34 a.m. The circumstances and cause of the fire were under investigation by township fire and police officials.
Photos by Tyler Eckel
April 2, 2023
JACKSON, NJ (OCEAN)–Six Flags Great Adventure announced that they will be closed today due to the Jackson Township Emergency Declaration and for the safety of their guests and team members. Six Flags Great Adventure and Safari will be closed today April 2, 2023 and anticipates to reopen on Wednesday, April 5, 2023 for Spring Break.
UPDATES from Jackson Township Police Department:
We are aware the power is still out and it has been reported that over 9300 people are without power at this time. There is no ETA on when power will be restored.
PLEASE DO NOT call the police department about your power outage asking for updates. We do not know and our dispatchers are already overloaded with emergency calls for service.
The roads that were listed previously are still closed along with a section of West County Line Road between Bennetts Mills Road & Villanova Drive.
Everyone is working diligently to open roadways and assist JCP&L in any way with power restoration.
In addition there is a Declaration of Emergency in effect so please limit your usual traffic today so that emergency services can focus on getting everything back in order.
That being said if you need police assistance or have any type of emergency please do not hesitate to call us.
Stay Safe and we will update accordingly
Please DO NOT drive through Closed Roads, past barrels and cones, or Over Wires!
This is for everyone’s safety.
Thank you.
UPDATE From Ocean County Sheriff’s Office:
We are asking for the public’s assistance today. If you must travel in Jackson Township today to please avoid all road closures, obey traffic laws, and do not driver over any downed wires!!!
Numerous Roadways Closed In Central, NJ After Storms Move Through Area
JACKSON, NJ (OCEAN)–The Ocean County Sheriff’s Department is urging the public in Jackson Township to stay off the roads this evening due to multiple trees, poles, and wires down!
Jackson Mills Fire Company posted Jackson Twp has multiple trees and power lines down throughout the town. It is dark and you may not see many hazards that emergency services have not gotten to yet. Please stay home tonight and stay safe.
There are also numerous trees and wires down throughout Upper Freehold Township. Upper Freehold Township Emergency Management sent out a notice asking people to stay off the roads tonight around 8:33 p.m. not long after severe thunderstorms with possible tornados moved though the area. Wires poles down in the area of County Road 539, County Road 537, Ellisdale Road
The Wall Township Police Department along with Fire and EMS are responding to numerous calls for service. We have received numerous calls in reference wires down and trees down blocking the roadways. Please do not approach down wires. Please do not travel on roadways unless absolutely necessary
There are poles and wires down in the Crosswicks Hamilton Township area near South Broad Street. There were reports of numerous locations. If traveling in that area be careful tonight.
MidJersey.news has a reporter in Jackson and will be sending in updates. Check back for further details and photos.
UPDATE from Jackson Police Department
First and foremost we hope everyone is safe! There are ALOT of reports of damage throughout the entire town. We are aware of power outages and the power companies along with DPW and county are doing all they can to clean everything up and restore power.
All emergency services are working diligently to get this accomplished.
The following roads are closed at the moment:
– West Commodore Boulevard between Cedar Swamp Road and Diamond Road
– North Cooksbridge Road between Rose Dr and Willow Drive along with parts of South Cooksbridge Road.
We ASK that everyone please stay in doors and off the roads so clean up can be completed safely. Please don’t venture out to assess the damage, we will take care of that.
As always do not hesitate to call us if you need our assistance or emergency services! Please refrain from calling us about power outages as we are aware and our dispatchers are fielding a high volume of calls.
Thank you for your cooperation and stay safe!!!
Jackson Township, New Jersey after the storms tonight. Photo from the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office.
Photos below by: Ryan Mack, Jersey Shore Fire Response
Hail that fell in Robbinsville – Allentown – Upper Freehold Township area.
April 2, 2023 Update from Wall Township Police:
On 4/1/23 at 7:38 PM, Wall Township Police and Fire District 2 responded to Monmouth Executive Airport for an aircraft incident. Investigation on scene revealed a twin-engine jet left the runway while landing. It lost control upon entering a grass median, and came to rest on its underside off the taxiway.
Sudden high winds from incoming thunderstorms were a contributing factor.
The aircraft was occupied by its pilot and copilot. Both self-extricated from the plane and were uninjured. The plane sustained significant damage. Wall Fire District 2, with assistance from Monmouth County Hazmat, were able to isolate the fuel from the aircraft. The scene was secured until morning.
With daylight as an advantage, emergency crews returned to the airport the following morning. A private towing and recovery company removed the plane and the debris field was cleared. Spilled fuel was mitigated. The airport was closed during the initial investigation and has since reopened.
This was one of over 100 calls for service Wall Township Emergency Services responded to over the course of three hours due to the storm. It is another example of our personnel operating at a unique emergency under one unified command structure resulting in a successful outcome.
April 1, 2023
WALL TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Wall Township Police reported that Police and Glendora Fire Company are on scene at the Monmouth Executive Airport for a jet that left the runway upon landing. All occupants are safely out of the aircraft without injuries. The airport will remain closed until the outcome of the investigation. The aircraft is a Cessna Citation X.
Wall Township Police Photo
File Photo: Tomás Del Coro / Wikipedia Creative Commons Licensed Use
Flight information from both Flightradar24 and Flightaware.com
April 1, 2023
8:00 p.m. update
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)-ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The storms have moved east of Trenton and cut through the center of the state knocking trees and wires down. MidJersey.news is monitoring communications for any reports of damage. There are reports of people trapped in a vehicle in Upper Freehold Township due to wires and trees down on a car. Numerous roadways are closed due to trees and wires down. A large amount of hail has fallen in the area that could create damage to cars and other items.
Looking at radar the storms area currently in the shore areas.
Hail that has fallen from the severe thunderstorms with tornado warnings in the Robbinsville – Allentown – Upper Freehold Township areas.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Tornado Warnings and Severe Thunderstorm Warnings have been issued for most of Central New Jersey. Take Cover Immediatly.
April 1, 2023
MONROE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Firefighters reported that at 6:08 a.m., this morning, fire box 5710 was struck for a reported smoke condition in a residence. All Monroe Township fire units responding were updated that this was confirmed to be a working fire. Ladder 23 arrived first due and quickly extinguished the fire before it extended further into the residence. Tower 57 arrived 2nd due and laddered the residence, performed primary searches and checked for extension. Engine 5 and 51 units were also on location. Plainsboro (49) was assigned RIT and units from Millstone Twp and Jamesburg were recalled while en route.
Two Others Have Died From Trenton Shootings Increasing Homicide Total To 17
April 12, 2023
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Around 5:45 p.m. Trenton Police, Trenton EMS, Paramedics and Trenton Fire Department all responded to the area of Spring and Calhoun Streets for reports of multiple people shot. Two victims were transported to the Trauma Center at Captial Health Regional Medical Center and trauma alerts were called. No further information is available.
Police also noted in their report that during the investigation of the CO leak, Engine 40 discovered numerous hazards, safety concerns in the dwelling. Specifically, it was observed that there were no CO carbon monoxide detectors, not enough smoke detectors, and many points of egress were blocked. Police noted in the report that a door was screwed shut to the frame, and another with two planks of wood mounted across it, preventing it from being opened. As a result, there was only one working point of exit for the occupants.
March 31, 2023
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)—According to documents obtained from an OPRA (Open Public Records Act) request by MidJersey.news it was revealed that an EMT’s carbon monoxide alarm sounded in a North Main Street home while treating a patient for a possible stroke. High levels of carbon monoxide were found in the dwelling. It was later revealed that the home was turned into a boarding house and housing thirty-three BAPS Temple volunteers. The building was evacuated, the Police, Fire Department, Construction Department and Fire Marshal responded.
According to reports, Robbinsville Ambulance 40, EMS workers responded to 93 North Main Street in Windsor on March 15, 2023 for a person believed to be having a stroke. When the ambulance crew entered the structure “A40 single gas CO monitor began to alarm.” Warning the ambulance crew of carbon monoxide present. The Fire/EMS report states “The patient was removed from the building and into the ambulance for further assessment. A40 transported with ALS to RWJ Hamilton. Squad 40 remained on scene and investigated the CO alarm.”
The Robbinsville Police Department report states police responded with Ambulance 40 and Engine 40 for a patient with possible stroke symptoms. As the EMT’s were evaluating the patient the EMT’s carbon monoxide detector emitted a warning about carbon monoxide levels in the dwelling.
The Robbinsville Police Department report also stated that the “building was currently housing thirty-three female work volunteers for the BAPS Temple (112 North Main Street).”
According the police record, Engine 40 investigated and confirmed that there was very high CO levels within the home. All occupants were evacuated immediately.
Police also noted in their report that during the investigation of the CO leak, Engine 40 discovered numerous hazards, safety concerns in the dwelling. Specifically, it was observed that there were no CO carbon monoxide detectors, not enough smoke detectors, and many points of egress were blocked. Police noted in the report that a door was screwed shut to the frame, and another with two planks of wood mounted across it, preventing it from being opened. As a result, there was only one working point of exit for the occupants.
Police notified the Robbinsville Township Engineer Construction Official and the Robbinsville Fire Marshal. The building was not allowed to be occupied until a inspection the following day.
The record states that, after Engine 40 had been able to properly vent the building and the carbon monoxide was at a safe level, the residents were allowed to retrieve their necessary belongings, and were then relocated by BAPS representatives. Once the residents all left, the building was secured and police tape was put across the doorways.
The report stated that the Township Engineer Construction Official did respond to the location to investigate and posted the building as an Unsafe Structure/Immediate Hazard due to the unapproved boarding and various code violations.
The Property Record Card indicates that the property is owned by PRAMUKH SWAMIJI LLC, 8005 Pulaski Highway, Baltimore, Maryland. It was purchased for $1,001,000 on December 20, 2017. The Property Class is 3A “Farm Property (Regular)”
The Construction Department issued a “Notice of Unsafe Structure” on March 16, 2023 states “Unapproved Boarding/Rooming House, Unsafe Equipment, No Smoke or CO Alarms”
The Construction Department “Notice of Violation and Order To Terminate” on March 16, 2023 states “Unapproved Boarding/Rooming House”
There are three “Notice of Violation and Order to Terminate” indicating that “Work Done Without A Permit”
There are also three “Notice and Order of Penalty” notices issued on March 16, 2023 with “failed to obtain construction permit” with an order to pay of $2,000 with a combined total of the three orders of $6,000. In penalties were issued.
UPDATE: Statement from Robbinsville Township Council Regarding BAPS Investigation
April 10, 2023
Members of Township Council are profoundly disturbed by the recent findings at dwellings on North Main Street and Voelbel Road. The conditions found within those buildings, the number of occupants residing there, along with the myriad of Fire Code and Uniform Construction Code violations are obviously unacceptable. The safety and well-being of all residents and visitors to Robbinsville Township is paramount, and we will continue to do everything within our power to hold the person(s) responsible for these violations accountable. As Mayor Dave Fried stated previously in media interviews, all the houses known to be boarding dozens of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha volunteers have been shut down with some deemed uninhabitable until all required repairs are completed, and inspections conducted. All Code violations found will be pursued in Municipal Court. Robbinsville Township Administration and the Police Department have referred the case to the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office. While outside agencies are investigating, including the FBI, we ask for your patience as they carefully and methodically review the case. While we understand people want to know all the details as soon as issues occur, that is not always possible because those pieces of information could very well disrupt and even derail an investigation. There is a team of people working hard every day to keep everyone safe. Please keep in mind Robbinsville officials, with the help of residents, initiated these raids. Please continue to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the Township Administration and our Police Department. Also feel free to reach out to us at [email protected].
All documents obtained by OPRA, Open Public Records Act request by MidJersey.News are listed below:
Police noted in the report that a door was screwed shut to the frame, and another with two planks of wood mounted across it, preventing it from being opened. As a result, there was only one working point of exit for the occupants.
The Robbinsville Police Department report also stated that the “building was currently housing thirty-three female work volunteers for the BAPS Temple (112 North Main Street).
Photo obtained by OPRA request states CO pipe heater
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Sgt. Philip Curry from the New Jersey State Police, Office of Public Information told MidJersey.news that Troopers are investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash that occurred at 7:25 a.m. on I-295 northbound in the area of Mile Post 63.2 in Hamilton Twp. There is one confirmed fatality. This crash is currently under investigation and there are no additional details available at this time.
Lawrenceville, NJ Man Identified As Victim Of Morning Accident On I-295
Earlier MidJersey.News story here:
Developing: Hamilton Firefighters On Location With Car In Water On I-295
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–It was reported that NJ State Police and Hamilton Township Fire Department were called to I-295 this morning with a car in the water near Cypress Lane overpass. Firefighters requested two water rescue units for a person in the car that was in the water. The New Jersey Serious Crash Investigation Unit was called to the scene for the investigation. The car was removed from the water.
UPDATE HERE:
Sgt. Philip Curry from the New Jersey State Police, Office of Public Information told MidJersey.news that Troopers are investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash that occurred at 7:25 a.m. on I-295 northbound in the area of Mile Post 63.2 in Hamilton Twp. There is one confirmed fatality. This crash is currently under investigation and there are no additional details available at this time.
Lawrenceville, NJ Man Identified As Victim Of Morning Accident On I-295
NJ State Police Investigating Fatal Crash on I-295 In Hamilton Township
Hamilton Township Professional Firefighters Association Facebook Photos.
Graphic from Twitter posted by Brian K 
Photos by Tyler Eckel
