HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri announced today that an investigation conducted by the Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Hamilton Police Division has resulted in the arrest of a Burlington County man for the shooting death of Matthew Morales.
Joshua Davis, 18, of Fieldsboro, NJ, is charged with one count of first-degree murder, one count of second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose and one count of second-degree unlawful possession of a weapon. He was taken into custody without incident Wednesday afternoon in Mount Laurel. The prosecutor’s office has filed a motion to detain Davis pending trial.
Hamilton police officers responded to a shooting in progress in the 4900 block of S. Broad Street shortly after 1 a.m. on Wednesday, May 17, 2023. Upon arrival, officers located a male victim in the driveway of a home near Pilgrim Way suffering from a gunshot wound. The victim, identified as Morales, 28, of Blackwood, NJ, was transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center where he was pronounced dead a short time later. Investigation revealed that Morales was shot during an altercation with Davis on S. Broad Street.
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact MCHTF Detective Luis Vega at (609) 989-6406 or Sgt. Sherika Salmon at (609) 960-3119. Information can also be emailed to [email protected].
Despite having been charged, every defendant is presumed innocent until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Joshua Davis, 18, of Fieldsboro, NJ, is charged with one count of first-degree murder, one count of second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose and one count of second-degree unlawful possession of a weapon. He was taken into custody without incident Wednesday afternoon in Mount Laurel. The prosecutor’s office has filed a motion to detain Davis pending trial.
Blackwood, Man Shot And Killed In Hamilton Township, Mercer County
The scene yesterday on South Broad Street near Pilgrim Way and Main Street, Hamilton Township, Mercer County, NJ
JACKSON TOWNSHIP, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on November 1, 2023, Andrew Fantasia, 27, of Beachwood, was charged with Possession of Child Pornography and an additional count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Fantasia had previously been charged with Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Aggravated Criminal Sexual Contact, and Official Misconduct, on October 25, 2023.
An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit and Jackson Township Police Department determined that between February 2023 and June 2023, Fantasia – while employed in his official capacity as a teacher at Carl W. Goetz Middle School and club advisor at Jackson Memorial High School – had inappropriate sexual contact with a student on high school property. The investigation further revealed that Fantasia requested nude photos from the victim.
On October 25, 2023, Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victim’s Unit, Jackson Township Police Department and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, executed a court-authorized search warrant at Fantasia’s residence; as a result, Detectives seized multiple electronic devices in Fantasia’s possession. Fantasia was taken into custody and transported to the Ocean County Jail, where he is presently lodged pending a detention hearing.
A full forensic analysis of Fantasia’s electronic devices, conducted by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, revealed nude images of the victim on Fantasia’s cellular phone. On November 1, 2023, Fantasia was served with the additional charges as noted above by way of warrant at the Ocean County Jail.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, Jackson Township Police Department, Jackson Township Police Department Detective Bureau, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, for their 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.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Sometime around 2:00 p.m. Trenton Firefighters responded to the abandoned MLK School on Dr, Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard between Evans Avenue and Southard Street for a reported fire. Shortly after arrival an “all hands” was called sending additional firefighters and equipment to the scene and a short time later a 2nd Alarm was called. Additional firefighters were called to the scene from around the region and the fire escalated to five alarms before being brought under control. There were reports of exposure problems to homes on Evans Avenue that sustained damage.
There were reports of a firefighter that was transported to the hospital with a BLS type injury.
Fire investigators were called to the scene from the Trenton Fire Department, NJ Division of Fire Safety, Trenton Police and the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office.
This is the 2nd large multi-alarm fire in the region within 12-hours and appears to be in warehouse/industrial use building.
HAMILTON, NJ – On May 18, 2023, at approximately 12:30 AM, Hamilton Fire Division was dispatched for a building fire at 533 Whitehead Road, the former Goodall Rubber building, now operated by Hakim International Trading.
While en route, the Battalion Chief on duty was notified of a large column of smoke visible from a distance from the location of the fire. The first arriving fire engine reported a large fire on two floors and determined that defensive operations would be used. Upon arrival on the scene, the Battalion Chief immediately transmitted a 2nd alarm to bring in surrounding towns. Several homes adjacent to the property were recommended to be evacuated for safety and to assist with firefighting response.
The Hamilton Police Division has closed multiple roads in the area of the incident, and detours have been established. The Hamilton Township Construction Officer has determined that portions of the building require demolition. As such, we anticipate that the intersection of Whitehead Road and Sweetbriar Avenue will be closed through Friday morning’s commute.
At its peak, the fire was operating at four alarms with 26 firefighting units from 14 municipalities on scene. The NJ Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) is on scene taking air quality samples, and no concerns have been detected thus far. One firefighter sustained non-life threatening injuries and was transported to Robert Wood Johnson Hamilton hospital for evaluation.
We appreciate the fourteen area municipalities, the Hamilton Police Division, the Hamilton Township Building Inspections Division, the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, and the NJDEP for their assistance.
The incident is being investigated by the Hamilton Township Police, Hamilton Township Fire Investigation Unit, and the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office. Any witnesses are asked to contact the Hamilton Police Division at (609) 581-4000.
Above photos provided by: Hamilton Township
Original MidJersey.news story below:
May 18, 2023
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Firefighters are on the scene of a multi-alarm fire in the 500 Block of Whitehead Road near Sweet Briar Avenue. The fire was dispatched around 12:35 a.m. for 533 Whitehead Road, with reports of fire on the first and second floor with a large column of smoke in the air. A second alarm was called immediately sending help from surrounding towns to the scene.
The address for 533 Whitehead Road comes back to Sweet Briar West Industrial Park and appears to be a mix of warehousing and industrial use. The building was formerly part of the Goodall Rubber Complex.
Traffic Advisory:
Please avoid the area of WHITE HEAD RD and SWEETBRIAR AVE. Fire Units on scene of a wear house fire. Expect closures until further notice.
***Street Closings in the area***
SLOAN AVE/KLOCKNER RD (closed)
WHITE HEAD RD/RT 1 (Closed)
RT 1 North Bound down to 1 Lane
WHITE HEAD/THIRD AVE (CLOSED)
ASSUNPINK BLVD (CLOSED)
This is still a very active fire scene and further details will be provided later in the day.
This is the second large commercial warehousing/industrial type building fire within 12-hours. As some fire departments were being relieved at the South Brunswick warehouse fire they responded to this warehouse fire in Hamilton Township.
This is the second large warehouse industrial building fire in the region as some firefighters were returning from South Brunswick they responded to Hamilton Township for another multi alarm fire.
ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–When the 2023 Allentown Lions Club Memorial Day Parade steps off at the corner of Allen Drive and Main Street on Monday, May 29th at 10:30 a.m. sharp, it will be led by one of the Historic Borough’s most dedicated citizens: Lion Kevin O’Neill of the Borough.
O’Neill, though no stranger to leadership positions, said he was both surprised and humbled by the citation. “To be named Parade Grand Marshal is, of course, a special honor and the Lions Club is a very special organization to me because it offers the opportunity to give back directly to the community. We serve wherever and whenever there is a need. That is what it’s all about.”
Every spring, the Lions Club seeks to honor one person who has served the community in a significant way over a period of years–even decades, said Parade Chair Rob Schmitt. “It’s never an easy choice,” Schmitt said. “The Committee considers many candidates over the course of a few months. We look, first and foremost, for a combination of military service and community service. That might include service organizations like the Lions, but it might also be someone who volunteers with the Ambulance Squad, or the Fire Company–or both, or who has coached kids for many years, or run one or several of our scouting organizations over the years, or done other work that betters our town and sets an example of selfless service for others.”
As a Veteran of the U.S. Navy (Corpsman), a 25-year Lion, a 37-year member of the Knights of Columbus, a 38-year member of American Legion Post #31, a 10-year veteran of the Hope Fire Co. a former Allentown Troop 180 Scout Master, Cub Pack 180 Leader, and member of the troop’s Executive Committee, a local youth baseball & soccer coach and a professional drug and alcohol counselor (LCSW), and as a noted friend and active citizen of Allentown Borough, Schmitt noted “so, all things considered, Kevin kind of fits the bill, right?” He added that list of what O’Neill actually accomplished for the community–and especially for the youth–within those organizations and “opportunities to give back” would undoubtedly fill volumes.
O’Neill, 63, of Greenfield Drive, has been married to his wife Eileen for 40 years and together they raised 3 children: Riley, 35; Molly, 29; and Casey, 25. (Both Riley & Casey are Allentown Eagle Scouts). “Eilleen and I moved to Allentown from Twin Rivers back in 1985. We had a condo there and had been looking in the area for a house and when we saw Allentown and then this house with this great backyard–we knew right away that this was the perfect place to raise our family.” O’Neill said.
The Grand Marshal said that he is particularly proud of reintroducing the outdoor adventure component to Allentown Scouting during his tenure with the troop. “The cultivation of the outdoor activities and high adventure program, for me, was so important in many ways: as a former Boy Scout–a kid growing up in Elizabeth, NJ–as a parent; and, of course later, as a Scoutmaster.” O’Neill independently took the rigorous BSA Assistant Scoutmaster training courses and put it to good use for Cub Pack 180 and Boy Scout Troop 180a. “I was passionate about getting the troop hiking and camping again, but Bill Hoover (also an Allentown Lion involved with scouting) introduced kayaking, and brought back canoeing, and water safety. In my time as Scoutmaster, we doubled the size of the troop.” Staying on the topic of Scouting and its importance in a community, O’Neil commented, “As a boy, I was surrounded by strong men of integrity who gave back. I credit them with showing me the example of what I would do later. I have tried to live my life by the Boy Scout Oath and Law and hope that the young people I have worked with grow up to be leaders who do the same.”
The proud Navy veteran, whose father served in the Merchant Marines during WWII, was born and raised in Elizabeth, NJ. O’Neill said, by the end of high school in 1973, he was eager to strike out on his own and joined the Navy where he served as a Corpsman from 1973-1977. He was keen to serve his country and volunteered for the FMF advanced training that would enable him to work on the front lines with the U.S. Marine Corps on the battlefields of Vietnam. This was not to be, however, as hostilities ended at the same time as his training. The young Corpsman was to spend his service as a Hospital Corpsman, first at the Naval Hospital in Orlando, Fl. (where he also became a licensed EMT), and later, at Naval Hospital in Philadelphia working in the area of Neuropsychology.
O’Neill, who earned his BA from Rutgers University in 1980, and a MSW at the University of Pennsylvania in 1982, has worked for NJ Transit for the past 17 years as the Senior Employee Assistance Professional. He earned a second M.A. in Administration from Rider University in 1989. He has been a Therapist at Main Street Counseling for the past 3 years.
Lions Club President Chuck Tkachuck of Millstone Twp. said O’Neill perfectly personifies the Lions mission to serve others wherever they are needed. “Lion Kevin is the example for the rest of us to follow. It’s that simple,” Tkachuck said. “We Lions put aside politics, religion, socioeconomic class, and all other barriers that keep us apart. Our mission is to serve others without expectation of reward or even acknowledgement. Kevin O’Neill has spent a lifetime exemplifying those high ideals of leadership, personal integrity, friendship, and service to others. But I must add that Kevin is a man known for his kindness and profound faith. We are beyond excited and proud to honor him as our 2023 Memorial Day Parade Grand Marshal.”
The Allentown Lions Club Memorial Day Parade is scheduled for Monday May 29, 2023, at 10:30am. It begins at the corner of Allen Drive & Main Street in the Borough, turns left up High Street, and ends at the lower Newell Elementary School Parking lot on High Street/ Rt. 539. Immediately following the parade is the Memorial Service for the Gallant Fallen at the War Memorial located at the upper parking lot of Newell Elementary. The Allentown Lions Club encourages all to attend this solemn and moving service.
For more information please contact Memorial Day Parade Chair Rob Schmitt at[email protected]or by phone 609-364-0176
When the 2023 Allentown Lions Club Memorial Day Parade steps off at the corner of Allen Drive and Main Street on Monday, May 29th at 10:30 a.m. sharp, it will be led by one of the Historic Borough’s most dedicated citizens: Lion Kevin O’Neill of the Borough.
2022 Allentown Memorial Day Parade
68th Allentown Memorial Day Parade And Memorial Service 2021
ALLENTOWN, NJ (MERCER)–The 68th Annual Allentown Lions Club Memorial Day Parade and Memorial Service was held today. The parade started at 10:30 a.m. at the north end of Main Street and ending at the Newell Elementary School on High Street. Immediately following the parade the annual memorial service was held and concluded around 12:20 p.m.
A list of participants were, Allentown Lions Club Grand Marshal Dr. Joan Ruddiman, The Allentown Hope Fire Company, The Award Winning AHS Redbird Marching Band, The Allentown First Aid Squad, Jerry Rife and the Rhythm Kings, Allentown Borough Police Dept., The Ancient Order of Hibernian Bagpipe Band, Elected Officials from Allentown and Upper Freehold, New Egypt Fire Co., Larry the Lion, The Shamrock and Thistle Pipe and Drum Band, The Allentown Village Initiative (TAVI) The Knights of Columbus AHR Color Guard Dragons Lacrosse Team, Special Music Provided by DJ Nebbs, The Upper Freehold Professional Firefighters, The Allentown High School FFA and their Salute to our Agricultural Heritage, Allentown/Upper Freehold Little League and Softball Teams, Uncle Sam, Allentown Troop 180A Boy Scouts, Allentown Boy Scout Troop 55, Jacobstown Fire Co., Allentown Pack 180 Cub Scouts, Allentown-Robbinsville Girl Scouts, Clever Clover 4-H Horse Association of Millstone, Civil Air Patrol Color Guard, Crescent Temple Provost Guard, Shrine Clowns, Tin Lizzies, Chesterfield Hose and Crosswicks Fire Co., The FEZ Float, The Allentown Garden Club, Mid-Jersey Antique Cars and others.
Video and Photo Gallery:
The 68th Annual Allentown Lions Club Memorial Day Parade started on North Main Street and ended at Newell Elementary School where the Annual Memorial Day Service is held.
The 68th Annual Memorial Service was held in front of the memorial at the entrance of the school complex in front of Newell Elementary School.
MANCHESTER, NJ (OCEAN)—A visit to a popular privately-owned 7000-acre tract of land in Manchester on Sunday afternoon ended tragically for a 22-year-old Cliffside Park man, Jimy Sadan Gomez-Estrada unlawfully visited the Heritage Mineral property on Sunday and attempted to swim in the lake with another individual around 6:30 pm. The two swimmers went into distress and the other individual was pulled from the water by a passerby, however, they were unable to reach Gomez-Estrada. Gomez-Estrada was subsequently pulled from the water by another passerby and lifesaving measures were initiated at the scene. Gomez-Estrada was transported to Community Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased. The preliminary investigation indicates the drowning to be accidental.
Assisting with this investigation is the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department Crime Scene Investigation Unit and the Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Anyone who may have been at “Crystal Lake” and witnessed this incident is asked to contact Detective Richard Conklin of the Manchester Township Police Department’s Investigations Bureau at 732-657-2009 ext. 4211.
Originally operated by ASARCO (American Smelting and Refining Company), Inc., the property was sold to and subsequently operated by Heritage Minerals until the cessation of mining operations in the early 1980’s. As a former mining site, the property consists of 7,000 acres that connect the eastern section of the township off of Route 37 to the western section, off of Route 70. During its years of operation, the land was mined so deeply that numerous bodies of water often referred to as ‘lakes’ formed. These ‘lakes’ which are actually groundwater aquifers, litter the landscape on the site. Seemingly unassuming, these bodies of water offer many dangers. Because the lakes were formed as a result of the mining operation, they do not have stable bottoms or shore lines, the way naturally occurring lakes do. The banks are very unpredictable and dangerously unstable. Those entering the water will quickly realize that after taking a few steps in the soft, unstable sand that the shoreline ‘shelf’ quickly drops off to depths that exceed 60 feet. Some estimates have the largest ‘lake’ on the property as being up to 300 feet deep.
Because these ‘lakes’ are not fed by any streams but rather by a deep underground source, the water is clear but very cold. These ‘lakes’ are filled with mineral-laden spring water from the underground aquifer and, as such, buoyancy is reduced. Additionally, the water is also much colder, which can result in a swimmer, even an accomplished one, tiring much faster. The characteristics of these ‘lakes’ to include unstable shoreline shelves and water composition have been attributed to several drownings which have occurred on the property.
The Manchester Township Police Department would like to remind the public that the Heritage Minerals or “ASARCO” site is private property. It is closed for recreational and/or other use and it is a criminal offense to enter or remain on the property. In the interest of public safety, the Manchester Township Police urges everyone to obey the “No Trespassing” signs posted at the site. Trespassers are subject to substantial fines and penalties up to and including incarceration for being on the property.
Other MidJersey.News stories on this property:
62 Year Old Drowns 25 Feet Of Water As UTV Crashes Into A Forming Mining Lake
Howell Man Charged With Vehicular Homicide
Manchester Township Police Department September 2, 2016 reminder of the dangers of the ASARCO site:
The Manchester Township Police Department would like to remind the public that the Heritage Minerals or “ASARCO” site is private property. It is closed for recreational and/or other use and it is a criminal offense to enter or remain on the property. In the interest of public safety, the Manchester Township Police urges everyone to obey the “No Trespassing” signs posted at the site. Trespassers are subject to hefty fines and penalties up to and including incarceration for being on the property.
Originally operated by ASARCO (American Smelting and Refining Company), Inc., the property was sold to and subsequently operated by Heritage Minerals until the cessation of mining operations in the early 1980’s. As a former mining site, the property consists of 7,000 acres that connect the eastern section of the township off of Route 37 to the western section, off of Route 70. During its years of operation, the land was mined so deeply that numerous bodies of water often referred to as ‘lakes’ formed. These ‘lakes’ which are actually groundwater aquifers, litter the landscape on the site. Seemingly unassuming, these bodies of water offer many dangers.
Because the lakes were formed as a result of the mining operation, they do not have stable bottoms or shore lines, the way naturally occurring lakes do. The banks are very unpredictable and dangerously unstable. Those entering the water will quickly realize that after taking a few steps in the soft, unstable sand that the shoreline ‘shelf’ quickly drops off to depths that exceed 60 feet. Some estimates have the largest ‘lake’ on the property as being up to 300 feet deep.
Making matters worse, a recent lack of rain has exposed a greater area of the shoreline shelf putting those near the water perilously close to the steep drop off. Furthermore, unsuspecting vehicle operators and other individuals, including bathers, and families with small children are faced with a higher risk of danger in this exposed area because of its potential to collapse without warning. Under no circumstance should anyone walk or drive on this exposed shelf or approach or enter these waters.
Because these ‘lakes’ are not fed by any streams but rather by a deep underground source, the water is clear but very cold. These ‘lakes’ are filled with mineral-laden spring water from the underground aquifer and as such buoyancy is reduced. Additionally, the water is also much colder, which can result in a swimmer, even an accomplished one, tiring much faster. The characteristics of these ‘lakes’ to include unstable shoreline shelves and water composition have been attributed to several drownings which have occurred on the property.
Enhanced patrols of the area will be in effect this Labor Day Weekend and a strict “no warning” enforcement policy remains in place. Additionally, further criminal charges may result from operating recreational vehicles or lighting bonfires on the property.
MANCHESTER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer has announced that on January 5, 2021, Stephen McGuire, 43, of Howell, was charged with Vehicular Homicide in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:11-5a, as well as Strict Liability Vehicular Homicide in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:11-5.3a, in connection with the death of James Grover, 62, also of Howell, on December 12, 2020. Additionally, McGuire was charged with three counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4a(2), Criminal Trespass in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:18-3b, and the motor offenses of Driving While Intoxicated in violation of N.J.S.A. 39:4-50, Driving While Intoxicated with a Minor as a Passenger in violation of N.J.S.A. 39:4-50.15, and Reckless Driving in violation of N.J.S.A. 39:4-96.
On December 12, 2020, at approximately 8:30 p.m., Officers from the Manchester Township Police Department responded to Heritage Minerals Mine, also known as ASARCO, on Route 70 in Whiting, for a report of a motor vehicle accident with a submersion. Responding Officers spoke to a group of individuals who were operating Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTVs); the group related to the Officers that a UTV had entered the lake at the center of the property, causing the UTV and its passengers to be submerged in the lake.
See Related MidJersey.news story here: 62 Year Old Drowns 25 Feet Of Water As UTV Crashes Into A Forming Mining Lake
An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Vehicular Homicide Unit and Manchester Township Police Department revealed that a UTV being driven by McGuire, which included James Grover and three minors as passengers, had entered the lake. The UTV and Mr. Grover did not resurface. The other passengers and members of the group attempted to locate Mr. Grover but were unsuccessful. Manchester Township Police and members of the Manchester, Ridgeway and Whiting Volunteer Fire Companies conducted an underwater dive search and rescue operation and located the UTV overturned and submerged in 25 feet of water. Mr. Grover was attached to the UTV by his safety harness. Mr. Grover was removed from his safety harness, and life saving measures were performed by Manchester Township Emergency Medical Technicians and Robert Wood Johnson Paramedics. Mr. Grover succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
In furtherance of the investigation, McGuire was taken to Community Medical Center in Toms River. A search warrant was obtained for a draw of his blood; laboratory results from the blood draw – received by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office on January 5, 2021 – revealed that McGuire had a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of .127 %. In the State of New Jersey, an operator of a motor vehicle is presumed to be over the legal limit for purposes of alcohol consumption where his/her BAC is .08 or greater.
On January 5, 2021, McGuire was arrested without incident at his residence in Howell by Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Vehicular Homicide Unit and Officers from Manchester Township Police Department. He is currently lodged in the Ocean County Jail pending a detention hearing.
Prosecutor Billhimer commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Vehicular Homicide Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Victim Witness Advocacy Unit, Manchester Township Police Department, New Jersey State Police Aviation Unit, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Manchester Volunteer Fire Company, Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Company, Whiting Volunteer Fire Company, Manchester Township Emergency Medical Services, Robert Wood Johnson Paramedics, and Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office, for their collaborative efforts relative to this investigation.
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.
Stephen McGuire, 43, of Howell
Stephen McGuire, 43, of Howell, was charged with Vehicular Homicide in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:11-5a, as well as Strict Liability Vehicular Homicide in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:11-5.3a, in connection with the death of James Grover, 62, also of Howell, on December 12, 2020. Additionally, McGuire was charged with three counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4a(2), Criminal Trespass in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:18-3b, and the motor offenses of Driving While Intoxicated in violation of N.J.S.A. 39:4-50, Driving While Intoxicated with a Minor as a Passenger in violation of N.J.S.A. 39:4-50.15, and Reckless Driving in violation of N.J.S.A. 39:4-96.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Around 9:15 a.m. several 9-1-1 calls were received for a large column of smoke coming from the Trenton Water Works Filtration Plant on Route 29. Smoke could be seen coming from the rear of the structure as reported by many people in the area. Upon arrival of the Trenton Fire Department it was determined to be smoke from a truck exhaust at the right side of the building. Firefighters returned to their stations and determined it was several good intent calls.
Several posts made on Facebook and other social media were inquiring about the smoke condition.
Photos by: Brian McCarthy, OnScene News
May 19, 2023
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Hamilton Township reported that as of 12:15 p.m. on Friday, May 19, 2023, the building at 533 Whitehead Road continues to have fire activity with hot spots in multiple areas of the property. Whitehead Road and Sweetbriar Avenues are expected to remain closed through the weekend.
The Hamilton Township Construction Official has ordered the demolition of a portion of the property to ensure that Whitehead Road may be reopened to traffic. Utility crews have set up temporary arrangements for power to the area and continue to work on a long-term solution. Residents recommended to evacuate were allowed to return to their homes mid-day on Thursday, May 18.
The incident continues to be investigated by the Hamilton Township Police, Hamilton Township Fire Investigation Unit, and the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office. Any witnesses are asked to contact the Hamilton Police Division at (609) 581-4000 or the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office at (609) 989-6351.
Firefighters Battle 4-Alarm Fire In Hamilton Township
Photos of the demolition by: Julie Higgins
Photos above: Anthony Greco
NJ Public Safety News Alerts
May 19, 2023
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–South Brunswick Police reported that on Wednesday, May 17, 2023, at 3:45 p.m., the South Brunswick Police Department Dispatch Center received a call reporting a fire in a commercial building located at 2 Progress Road.
Monmouth Junction Fire Chief Scott Smith and several police units arrived on scene at the single-story business within minutes and reported a significant amount of black smoke and flames coming from the roof of the warehouse.
Fifteen employees were in the building when the blaze was first reported, and all made it out of the building to safety unharmed.
Firefighters immediately established command and began coordinating resources needed to battle the blaze, while local EMS units responded to support the operation. Police were on scene to assist with traffic, and Office of Emergency Management personnel responded to provide additional resources and assistance.
Firefighters initiated an interior attack on the fire, but were forced to evacuate the building due to heavy fire conditions found in several sections of the building. Once the majority of the fire was knocked down, firefighters re-entered the building and used multiple hose lines to attack the fires burning in the warehouse. Materials stored inside the warehouse collapsed due to the fire and the use of water from hose lines and the building sprinkler system, resulting in a deep-seated fire that was difficult to extinguish. Firefighters began working in rotation to dig through the materials by hand and with the use of fork-lifts and skid-steer machinery to ultimately extinguish the fire.
As the scope of the operation grew, resources were requested from many other agencies throughout the state. County and State agencies responded to the scene to provide additional assistance, as did fire and EMS personnel from as far as 70 miles away.
By 2:00 p.m. Thursday, fire personnel were confident that the fire had been fully extinguished, and they began the process of demobilizing equipment. By 3:00 p.m., all personnel were cleared from the scene except the South Brunswick Fire Safety Bureau, which remained at the business to continue investigating the cause of the fire. At this time, the cause is undetermined, but not believed to be suspicious in nature.
Although the final tally of firefighters, EMTs, police officers, Office of Emergency Management personnel, and other essential workers is not complete, it appears that over 300 individuals worked during the 23-hour incident.
May 19, 2023
UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Sgt. Philip Curry of the New Jersey State Police, Office of Public Information told MidJersey.News that a crash occurred at 8:58 p.m. last night on Miers Road near Burlington Path Road in Upper Freehold Township. Based on initial information, an unknown Ford F-250 struck a vehicle and a pedestrian and fled the scene. The pedestrian sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to an area hospital. The F-250 operator has not been identified and this crash is still under investigation.
May 19, 2023
By Christopher Melvin Sr.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Dan Penix (who currently resides in Monmouth County, New Jersey) was a star athlete at Trenton Central High School back in the late 80’s thru early 90’s.
A standout Track and Soccer player for the Tornadoes, Penix went on to accept a Track scholarship to Rider University in 1991 and later served in the Military and even played the sport of Soccer professionally before becoming an Olympic Development Coach and one of the top Youth Soccer coaches in the country.
On Saturday, May 13, 2023, Penix took time away from his busy schedule and was back in his hometown of Trenton assisting, mentoring, and coaching up the youth of Trenton for the second time within the year. Penix’s efforts, in conjunction with the TMA Center 501c3 non-profit organization, put on it’s third Spring session of its Sports Builds Character Soccer/Training session, which has been sponsored by the likes of 2023 Super Bowl participants, The Philadelphia Eagles, held at the MLK Junior Middle School field in Trenton.
Alongside the TMA Center’s Founder/CEO Chester Jones, Penix informed the youth how he, like them grew up in Trenton and even attended the large prominent yet vacant school that stood in the background. “That’s the junior high school I attended as a youth,” explained Penix. “A lot of memories come across my mind looking over there … that’s Junior High School #1 (which later became the Martin Luther King Jr. School) … the school was huge and had everything in it including a gymnasium and Olympic sized pool.”
“I wish they do something with it (the school) … LOOK … it’s been vacant for like 20 years and is still standing.”
Penix, added. “The youth today don’t really understand the history and significance of this school.”
Unfortunately, just two days away from reminiscing about his former school, the NJ historical monument was up in flames.
On Monday, May 15, 2023 at approximately 2:15 pm emergency calls were placed about flames coming out of the roof of the school as the historical building burned down throughout the entire day resulting in a 5-alarm fire.
“WHEN I HEARD ABOUT IT AND SAW IT ON THE NEWS … ALL I COULD DO WAS SHAKE MY HEAD,” said Penix, who is a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Incorporated which has a motto being “Culture for Service and Service for Humanity”.
“I’m glad no one was injured … After being up there for the event – I immediately contacted my dad and shared the videos and pictures of me there with the youth with the school in the background just yards away … Now it’s gone … I’m saddened and shocked … this one hurts,” Penix added.
For some, the loss of such a monumental stature within the State’s – should spark a movement for immediate improvement.
“Think about it for second! This building has been in deplorable condition for close to 20 years now, and it’s sad that it took something like this to spark a conversation to tear it down,” said Chester Jones.
“Our “Sports Build Character” program co-sponsored by the Philadelphia Eagles, have been held on the MLK Jr. Middle school field for several weeks now, and our kids have had to train on the field with this blight in the background,” Jones added.
“This is the reason why we are steadfast in asking for support from our community and city leadership to help the TMA Center create a safer environment that is conducive to the development of our youth, who have become desensitized to the unordinary conditions of our city.”
Dan Penix was a star athlete at Trenton Central High School back in the late 80’s thru early 90’s. A standout Track and Soccer player for the Tornadoes, Penix went on to accept a Track scholarship to Rider University in 1991 and later served in the Military and even played the sport of Soccer professionally before becoming an Olympic Development Coach and one of the top Youth Soccer coaches in the country.
Firefighters Battle 5-Alarm Fire In Abandoned Trenton School
ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The 2022 Allentown Lions Memorial Day Parade was held Monday, May 30th. The Parade began at 10:30 a.m. on North Main Street and ended in front of the elementary school on High Street. The 2022 Parade Grand Marshal was, Mr. Mark Guterl, UFRSD Superintendent
Partial list of parade participants:
• Active Military
• Allentown and Upper Freehold Twp. Dignitaries
• Civil Air Patrol Color Guard
• Knights of Columbus TAVI Float
• Allentown and Robbinsville High School Marching Bands
• Stonebridge Middle School Marching Band
• Ancient Order of Hibernians Bagpipe Band
• Shamrock & Thistle Bagpipe Band
• Jerry Rife’s Rhythm Kings
• Fire Departments & First Aid Squads
• Local Service Clubs & Organizations
• Shrine Crescent Temple Clowns
• Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts
• Future Farmers of America with Cavalcade of Tractors, Little League Teams, 4 H Clubs
Stephen McGuire, 43, of Howell
