TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Just before 7:00 a.m. Trenton Police, Trenton Fire Department and Trenton EMS were detailed to the area of Old Rose Street for a vehicle in the water. Divers from Trenton Fire Department entered the D&R Canal to search the vehicle and no occupants were found in the submerged vehicle. Firefighters continued searching the canal for any victims but so far have not found any. The vehicle was in the process of being recovered. There are no further details available at this time.
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on August 8, 2024, Anthony Collins, 41, of Seaside Heights, was sentenced by the Honorable Guy P. Ryan, P.J.Cr.P., to three years New Jersey State Prison relative to a previously entered guilty plea to Manslaughter in connection with the death of Robert May, 70, of Seaside Heights, on October 1, 2023, in the Borough of Seaside Heights. This sentence will be subject to the terms of the No Early Release Act, meaning that Collins will be required to serve at least 85 percent of his prison sentence before he may be considered for parole eligibility. Collins pled guilty to the charge before Judge Ryan on June 10, 2024.
On September 18, 2023, at approximately 4:00 p.m., Officers from the Seaside Heights Police Department responded to the area of Central Avenue and Sumner Avenue for a report of a fall victim. Responding Officers found a male victim – later identified as Robert May – laying on the ground next to his bicycle. Mr. May was observed to be bleeding from a laceration to his head. Mr. May was initially treated at the scene and refused further medical assistance; he thereafter left the area and returned to his residence. A subsequent investigation by the Seaside Heights Police Department revealed that Mr. May was assaulted by another individual, which caused him to fall off his bicycle and strike his head on the pavement.
On September 18, 2023, at approximately 5:00 p.m., the Seaside Heights Police Department received information that Mr. May had been acting erratically subsequent to his fall, resulting in him being transported by the Tri-Boro First Aid Squad from his home to Community Medical Center in Toms River. Mr. May’s condition continued to deteriorate, and he was subsequently transferred to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick. On October 1, 2023, Mr. May succumbed to his injuries. A post-mortem examination conducted on that date by the Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office determined the cause of Mr. May’s death to be blunt force injury resulting from the assault which occurred in Seaside Heights on September 18, 2023, and the manner of his death to be homicide.
A continuing investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit and Seaside Heights Police Department determined that Collins was, in fact, the individual who assaulted Mr. May on September 18th, ultimately resulting in his death.
On October 4, 2023, a warrant was issued for Collins’ arrest, and his name was entered in the National Crime Information Center database. On October 15, 2023, Collins surrendered himself at Seaside Heights Police Department Headquarters. He was transported to the Ocean County Jail, where he has been lodged since that date.
“Certain proof problems in this case resulted in the State entering into a plea agreement calling for a sentence that is below the normal sentencing range for manslaughter,” Prosecutor Billhimer stated. “The victim’s family was cognizant of those issues, and supported this resolution. I commend them for their understanding and forgiving nature,” Prosecutor Billhimer concluded.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligent efforts of Assistant Prosecutor Julie Peterson, and commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Seaside Heights Police Department Detective Bureau, Seaside Heights Police Department, Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office, and United States Marshals Service, for their collaborative assistance in connection with this investigation, leading to Collins’ arrest, guilty plea, and now his state prison sentence.
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 6, 2023
TRENTON — The Attorney General’s Office is investigating a fatal police-involved shooting that occurred on December 5, 2023, in Manchester, New Jersey. One adult male sustained fatal injuries. His identity is not being released at this time.
According to the preliminary information, officers from the Manchester Township Police Department responded to Elizabeth Avenue after a 9-1-1 call was received at approximately 8:28 p.m. last night, Tuesday, December 5. Officers located the subject, and two officers fired their service weapons at approximately 9:10 p.m., fatally wounding the subject. A firearm was recovered near the subject.
A 2019 law, P.L. 2019, c. 1, requires the Attorney General’s Office to conduct investigations of a person’s death that occurs during an encounter with a law enforcement officer acting in the officer’s official capacity or while the decedent is in custody. It requires that all such investigations be presented to a grand jury to determine if the evidence supports the return of an indictment against the officer or officers involved.
The investigation is ongoing and no further information is being released at this time.
FREEHOLD – A Howell Township resident has been sentenced to four years and six months in state prison for intentionally killing his pet cat last year, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Friday.
Christopher Sanchez, 29, was sentenced yesterday by Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Scott C. Arnette.
An investigation into Sanchez’s activities was initiated on Friday, March 31, 2023, when members of the Howell Township Police Department dispatched to a residence for an unrelated matter found the body of the cat outside the home.
Members of the Howell Township Police Department and the Monmouth County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) Humane Law Enforcement Division conducted an investigation determining that the cat, named Lilith, had belonged to Sanchez, who used a sharp instrument to kill it two days earlier, recording photos and video footage of the act.
Sanchez was arrested on the same day as the initial police response. He has remained incarcerated at the Monmouth County Correctional Institution (MCCI) since, having pleaded guilty in December 2023 to third-degree Animal Cruelty by Unnecessarily or Cruelly Abusing a Living Animal, Resulting in its Death, and Simple Assault, a disorderly persons offense. The Simple Assault charge was filed because Sanchez physically attacked his roommate shortly after killing the cat.
Judge Arnette yesterday recited a list of additional requirements beyond the prison term, noting that Sanchez is also ordered to have no contact with the victim of the assault, never to return to the scene of the crime, surrender all of his privately owned firearms, and engage in 30 days of community service. He also received a permanent ban on owning or living in a residence with any pet or animal, and was ordered to pay $525 in restitution – to cover the cost of the necropsy that disproved his initial claim to authorities that the cat’s death was a mercy killing necessitated by her being mortally injured from being struck by a vehicle.
The case was prosecuted by Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutors Keri-Leigh Schaefer and Sevan Biramian.
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on July 15, 2024, Quaison Ellis, 25, of Barnegat Township, pled guilty to Possession of More than One Half Ounce but Less than Five Ounces of Heroin with Intent to Distribute before the Honorable Kenneth T. Palmer, J.S.C., in connection with an incident that occurred in Barnegat on September 10, 2021. Additionally, Ellis pled guilty to Possession of More than One Half Ounce but Less than Five Ounces of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, being a Certain Person Not to Possess a Firearm, and Burglary, all in connection with an incident that also occurred in Barnegat on December 9, 2022. At the time of his sentencing on September 13, 2024, the State will be seeking a term of ten years New Jersey State Prison (NJSP) as to the possession with intent to distribute heroin charge, ten years NJSP relative to the possession with intent to distribute cocaine charge, five years NJSP – with a five year period of parole ineligibility – as to the weapon offense, and three years NJSP with regard to the burglary charge. The sentences are to run concurrently.
On September 10, 2021, in furtherance of a narcotics investigation, Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, Barnegat Township Police Department Crime Reduction Unit, and Stafford Township Police Department Drug Enforcement Unit, established stationary and mobile surveillance on a residence on Hawthorne Lane in Barnegat. Detectives observed Ellis leave the residence and enter the front passenger seat of a motor vehicle. Detectives followed the vehicle to a residence in Paterson, New Jersey, where Ellis was observed meeting with a male. After a few minutes, Ellis returned to the vehicle and placed a bag in the trunk. The vehicle then returned to Barnegat. Officers from the Barnegat Township Police Department then effectuated a motor vehicle stop on the vehicle, and the driver of the vehicle consented to its search. As a result, Detectives seized approximately 1,550 wax folds of heroin. Ellis was transported to the Ocean County Jail, and subsequently released as a consequence of New Jersey Bail Reform.
On December 9, 2022, also in furtherance of an ongoing narcotics investigation, Officers from the Barnegat Township Police Department and Ocean County Regional SWAT Team executed a court-authorized search warrant on the same residence on Hawthorne Lane. As a result, Detectives seized quantities of cocaine and heroin, as well as a Keltec .32 caliber firearm. Further investigation revealed that the subject firearm was stolen from a vehicle in Stafford Township on September 29, 2022, resulting in an additional charge of burglary. Ellis was taken into custody and transported to the Ocean County Jail, and subsequently released as a consequence of New Jersey Bail Reform.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligent efforts of Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Meghan O’Neill and Assistant Prosecutor Taylor Toscano who are handling the case on behalf of the State, and commends the Barnegat Township Police Department, Barnegat Township Police Department Crime Reduction Unit, Barnegat Township Police Department K-9 Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, Stafford Township Police Department, Stafford Township Police Department Drug Enforcement Unit, and Ocean County Regional SWAT Team, for their collective and cooperative assistance in connection with these investigations resulting in Ellis’ guilty pleas, and soon his state prison sentence.
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.
Update: Person is being transported to local hospital for treatment. The family says the person has passed away and once we have confirmed with Gofundme representatives we will post the Gofundme page for the Beach Haven swimmer. Two swimming tragedies this past weekend Seaside Park and Beach Haven.
See updates below for other area incidents including missing swimmer in Seaside Heights
September 3, 2023-Updated September 4, 2023
BEACH HAVEN, NJ (OCEAN)–Around 2:53 p.m. lifeguards, police and EMS were detailed to 5th Street for a submerged swimmer. Two people were pulled from the water but a third a reported 24-year-old male was missing. The fire department was requested as well as NJ State Police Marine Division and the United States Coast Guard to help with the search.
As of 3:17 p.m. the search is still ongoing for the 24-year-old missing swimmer.
3:38 p.m. NJ State Police helicopter on scene assisting in search.
3:45 p.m. U.S. Coast Guard starting vector search with helicopter.
4:08 p.m. there are reports of a body being recovered from the water and CPR in progress.
First Aid and Paramedics treating the victim and preparing for transport to hospital.
Beach Haven First Aid and Paramedics transporting the victim to the local hospital for treatment: (Photos taken just before 5:00 p.m. in Ship Bottom)
Times are approximate
Once official information is released the story will be updated.
Beach Haven First Aid and Paramedics transporting the victim to the local hospital for treatment: (Photos taken just before 5:00 p.m. in Ship Bottom)
Multiple other incidents this afternoon too many to keep up with. Some are listed below:
BERKELEY TOWNSHIP- ISLAND BEACH STATE PARK–In another incident about 5:00 p.m. there are reports of CPR being performed on Island Beach State Park on the beach at Area 23 reports of 70-year-old male in cardiac arrest.
SURF CITY –At 5:20 p.m. a medical helicopter was called to 12 Street Surf City for a traumatic injury. Pulling the person off the beach and victim will be flown to a hospital for treatment.
NJ State Police medical helicopter landed at 5:40 p.m. at EJ Elementary School recreation field commonly used for landing zones on the island.
The person was transported to Atlantic City Medical Center by NJ State Police helicopter.
Numerous other water rescues in Seaside Park, and Belmar late this afternoon.
BERKELEY TOWNSHIP ISLAND BEACH STATE PARK – a young male has been pulled from the water and not breathing around 6:50 p.m.
Landing Zone for helicopter will be at the Governor Mansion on Island Beach State Park. RWJ University Hospital helicopter en route at 7:08 p.m. 7:18 p.m. helicopter canceled for transport.
SEASIDE HEIGHTS— Several swimmers in distress rescued reports of 27 year old male missing.
Calling for Aqua Eyes sonar for missing person search. Still missing as of 8:15 p.m.
Search called off for tonight will resume in morning.
9/4/2023 Update for Seaside from Seaside Park Fire Company:
Yesterday morning at 5:21 a.m. the Seaside Park Fire Department was dispatched with zone 1 for a forest fire assignment, 4531’s crew spent 12 hours on a structural protection assignment. While that assignment was being conducted other crews responded to multiple other emergencies in town and in the State Park. These emergencies included multiple water rescues. When the crew from the forest fire returned they assisted the other 2 crews for a total of 10 emergencies for the day. Unfortunately, the final call of the day was a tragic one and someone did not get to go home with their family. Crews were on the Stockton Ave beach until after 9:00 p.m. on a recovery mission. Some of our members left their homes and did not return for 17 hours yesterday. We cannot stress enough the importance of staying out of the ocean when the lifeguards are off duty, we remind the public that today is the last day of guarded beaches in Seaside Park!
POINT PLEASANT BEACH – 7:30 p.m units responding for a submerged subject. 3 subjects out of water and safe.
BAY HEAD – Reports of 3 swimmers in water in distress all out upon arrival of first responders.
BELMAR — At approximately 6:06pm, the Belmar Police Department received a report of a group swimmers in distress off the 6th Avenue beach. Upon police arrival, multiple Belmar lifeguards/ Water Rescue members had entered the water and were able to rescue five swimmers. Another unresponsive swimmer was rescued from the water at the 5th Avenue beach and transported to Jersey Shore University Hospital. Two other swimmers were also transported to the hospital. There is no further information at this time.
Surf City New Jersey State Police medical helicopter lands for reported trauma victim.
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on June 10, 2024, Anthony Collins, 41, of Seaside Heights, pled guilty to Manslaughter before the Honorable Guy P. Ryan, P.J.Cr.P., in connection with the death of Robert May, 70, of Seaside Heights, on October 1, 2023, in the Borough of Seaside Heights. At the time of his sentencing on August 9, 2024, the State will be seeking a term of three years New Jersey State Prison, subject to the terms of the No Early Release Act.
On September 18, 2023, at approximately 4:00 p.m., Officers from the Seaside Heights Police Department responded to the area of Central Avenue and Sumner Avenue for a report of a fall victim. Responding Officers found a male victim – later identified as Robert May – laying on the ground next to his bicycle. Mr. May was observed to be bleeding from a laceration to his head. Mr. May was initially treated at the scene and refused further medical assistance; he thereafter left the area and returned to his residence. A subsequent investigation by the Seaside Heights Police Department revealed that Mr. May was assaulted by another individual, which caused him to fall off his bicycle and strike his head on the pavement.
On September 18, 2023, at approximately 5:00 p.m., the Seaside Heights Police Department received information that Mr. May had been acting erratically subsequent to his fall, resulting in him being transported by the Tri-Boro First Aid Squad from his home to Community Medical Center in Toms River. Mr. May’s condition continued to deteriorate, and he was subsequently transferred to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick. On October 1, 2023, Mr. May succumbed to his injuries. A post-mortem examination conducted on that date by the Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office determined the cause of Mr. May’s death to be blunt force injury resulting from the assault which occurred in Seaside Heights on September 18, 2023, and the manner of his death to be homicide.
A continuing investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit and Seaside Heights Police Department determined that Collins was, in fact, the individual who assaulted Mr. May on September 18th, ultimately resulting in his death.
On October 4, 2023, a warrant was issued for Collins’ arrest, and his name was entered in the National Crime Information Center database. On October 15, 2023, Collins surrendered himself at Seaside Heights Police Department Headquarters. He was transported to the Ocean County Jail, where he has been lodged since that date.
“Certain proof problems in this case resulted in the State entering into a plea agreement with a recommended sentence that is below the normal sentencing range for manslaughter. The victim’s family recognizes and understands those issues, and is in support of this resolution. I commend them for their compassionate and forgiving nature,” Prosecutor Billhimer stated.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligent efforts of Assistant Prosecutor Julie Peterson, and commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Seaside Heights Police Department Detective Bureau, Seaside Heights Police Department, Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office, and United States Marshals Service, for their collaborative assistance in connection with this investigation, leading to Collins’ arrest, guilty plea, and soon his state prison sentence.
Photo by EKATERINA BOLOVTSOVA on Pexels.com
June 11, 2024
LAWRENCE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Police say that on Tuesday, June 11, 2024 at approximately 6:00 a.m., Lawrence Township Police Detectives executed a search warrant at a residence along the first block of Woodmont Drive, Lawrenceville, NJ. The search warrant execution was the result of a two-week long narcotics investigation conducted by the Lawrence Township Police Department.
As a result of the search warrant execution, Ahsan Shaikh (25-year-old male, Lawrenceville Resident) was arrested and charged with the following,
Manufacture Defacement of Weapons (2nd Degree) 2-Counts
Manufacture Firearm with 3D Printer (2nd Degree)
Manufacture of Covert or Undetectable Firearm (2nd Degree)
Certain Persons Not to Possess Weapons (4th Degree)
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Disorderly Persons Offense)
Ahsan Shaikh was transported to the Mercer County Correctional Center awaiting a Detention Hearing.
The Lawrence Township Police Department was assisted by the Mercer County Narcotics Task Force and the Mercer County Tactical Response Team.
This investigation is continuing, anyone with additional information is asked to contact Detective Sean Kerins at 609-844-7121 or [email protected].
June 11, 2024
Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone announced today, that four arrests were made in “Operation Cruel Summer,” a multi-agency undercover operation targeting people who allegedly were using social media in an attempt to lure underage children for sexual activity.
Operation Cruel Summer was led by the Internet Crimes Against Children Unit of The Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, with assistance from, the East Brunswick Police Department, Carteret Police Department, Highland Park Police Department, New Brunswick Police Department, Perth Amboy Police Department, Piscataway Police Department, Sayreville Police Department, South Brunswick Police Department, South River Police Department, the United States Secret Service, and the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office. Four men were arrested without incident and charged over the course of five days, June 3, 2024, through June 6, 2024, and June 10, 2024.
The underage “children” that the perpetrators were speaking with were, in fact, undercover officers. The defendants were arrested when they arrived at a location in East Brunswick, where they expected to find the child. Instead, they were met with several law enforcement officers prepared to arrest them.
“This operation’s success is a beacon of hope for our community and a stark warning to those who attempt to victimize our most vulnerable population: we will relentlessly pursue justice.” – Chief Frank LoSacco
Mohamed Mohamed, 41, of Jersey City, was charged with one count of second- degree Luring.
Peter Wissemann, 27, of Colonia, was charged with one count of second-degree Luring and one count of third-degree Criminal Attempt – Endangering Sexual Conduct with a Child.
Malyar Baron, 32, of Jersey City, was charged with one count of second-degree Luring, one count of second-degree Criminal Attempt -Endangering, one count of third- degree Distributing Obscene Material to a Minor, and one count of third-degree Criminal Attempt – Endangering Sexual Conduct with a Child.
Edgar Rivera, 65, of Piscataway, was charged with one count of second-degree Luring and one count of third-degree Criminal Attempt – Endangering Sexual Conduct with a Child.
The investigation is active and continuing. Anyone with information is asked to call the Internet Crimes Against Children Unit of The Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office at (732) 745-3300.
Prosecutor Ciccone would like to commend the agencies involved in Operation Cruel Summer, thanks to their dedication to public safety and tenacious hard work, four alleged child predators have been arrested.
As is the case with all criminal defendants, the charges against Mohamed, Wissemann, Baron and Rivera are merely accusations, and they are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
June 11, 2024–UPDATE
EAST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–East Windsor Police say that on Monday, June 10, 2024, at approximately 4:28 p.m., members of the East Windsor Township Police Department responded to a reported structure fire at building K of the American Way Condos on Avon Drive. The first responding police officers observed heavy smoke and flames coming from the second floor on the 1101ih end of the structure. Police evacuated all residents from the K building.
Fire personnel from several fire departments responded and began fire suppression. Eventually, the fire was extinguished by responding fire personnel. Each of the twenty-four condos within the K building sustained fire and/or water damage and the entire structure was deemed uninhabitable. No injuries to residents or fire personnel were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the East Windsor Township Police Department and the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office. At this time, the fire is believed to be non-suspicious.
The Red Cross responded and is assisting with housing for the numerous displaced residents.
The Red Cross confirmed that 47 have been displaced from 24 families. The Red Cross is meeting with families today. East Windsor Township provided hotel rooms for some last night.
East Windsor Volunteer Fire Company 1 – Rescue 42
East Windsor Volunteer Fire Company 2 – Engine 46-1
Hightstown Fire Department – Ladder 41
Robbinsville Fire Department – Squad 40
West Windsor Fire Department – Engine 43 and 44
Cranbury Fire Department – TW48
Plainsboro Fire Department – Engine 49
Hamilton Fire Department -Truckl0-1, El0-4, BCl0-1, SS-18
Lawrence Fire Department – Rescue 202
Prospect Heights Fire Company (Ewing) – Engine 31
Monroe Fire Department – Ladder 23-8, R51
Millstone Fire Department – Squad 32180
Manalapan Fire Department – TW26
Hope Fire Company (Upper Freehold) – E8276
North Brunswick Fire Department – Truck209
Southard Fire Department (Howell) – El 9-2-76
Mercer County Fire Coordinators – FC8 l-2, FC8 l-10
Monmouth County Fire Coordinator – 81-10
Mercer County – Canteen 22
Capital Health Paramedics – M179
Capital Health Ambulance – Al 79-27
Hightstown First Aid Squad – A14112
Princeton First Aid Squad – RHU168
We will update the story as to where to help as the information becomes available.
Police Warn About Moving Over to Emergency Vehicles
May 17, 2024
South Brunswick Police Department is sounding the alarm about motorists’ needing to Move Over while police conduct motor vehicle stops. “In the past 3 weeks, we have had 2 patrol officers SUVs struck while conducting motor vehicle stops. We are lucky that in both cases no officers were injured, but one police car was totaled,” said Chief Raymond Hayducka. He added, “It is dangerous to be stopping vehicles on the highways sometimes only feet from trucks and cars going 55 mph. We need drivers help at moving over or reducing their speed when they see a police car with its lights on.” The first case took place on April 29, 2024 at 3:37 am. South Brunswick Officers Jorge Robles, Ben Salihi, and Sgt Jesse Blake were already on a car stop for an impaired driver on Route 130 near Viking Way. As they were evaluating the driver with field sobriety test, a second vehicle crashed into the rear of the police SUV at a high rate of speed. (See video). The driver of the second vehicle, Gonzalo Najera age 30 of Princeton was found to be driving while intoxicated and arrested. The patrol SUV was totaled in the crash. Najera was charged with multiple offenses including driving while under the influence. The second crash occurred Thursday at 8:30 am on Route 130 near Broadway Road. Patrolman First Class Jason Gassman was conducting a motor vehicle stop with his emergency lights activated. While the officer was speaking to the driver of his traffic stop, a Grey Honda Odyssey minivan side-swiped police SUV damaging its driver’s side. The driver continued northbound without stopping. South Brunswick Police Traffic Safety Bureau is still investigating the hit-n-run.
“These two incidents highlight the danger officers face every day. If PFC Gassman had been on the driver’s side yesterday, this would be a much different story,” said Chief Hayducka. New Jersey law is clear on the requirements to MOVE OVER or slow down as you approach an emergency vehicle operating in the roadway. Chief Hayducka added, “It only takes seconds to slow down and move over, but the difference by not doing so can be a tragedy.”
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–The Trenton Police Department has released statistics detailing the results of the Summer Initiative Task Force. Starting in June, the joint effort between TPD, the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, Federal Law Enforcement Partners, the State Police, and Trenton’s Street Teams resulted in numerous arrests, the confiscation of drugs and weapons, and multiple summonses issued, amongst other accomplishments before completing on September 10.
Detectives and Officers utilized various deployment efforts including: targeting known violent offenders with active arrest warrants, conducting vehicle interdictions and increasing traffic enforcement, utilizing Packetalk cameras to covertly conduct surveillance throughout the city, increasing suppression patrol and Walk and Rides in the “Hot Spots” throughout various parts of the City, and addressing complaints submitted to the Director’s Office, City Hall and the Tip Line regarding the open-air use/sale of illegal narcotics, violations of city ordinances, and weapons offenses.
“I am immensely proud of the work Director Wilson has spearheaded with this Summer Initiative Task Force. This collaboration between TPD, the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, the State Police, and our Street Teams has resulted in great success. Thousands of doses of harmful, illicit drugs are now off our streets. Over sixty firearms have been seized, nearly 350 arrests conducted, and over $50,000 cash has been confiscated and removed from illicit trade, among numerous other achievements. Thank you to this collaborative team for helping make our streets and communities safer for all,” said Mayor Reed Gusciora.
The chart shows the amount of drugs, guns, arrests made, and money confiscated throughout each month and the total number for the summer.
Aside from arrests and the confiscation of drugs, weapons, and money, the Task Force also focused on clearing warrants, increasing patrols and traffic enforcement, and responding to complaints and notifications of city ordinance violations and weapons offenses.
In June, the initiative led to 79 cleared warrants, 391 motor vehicle stops, 521 motor vehicle summonses issued, 42 vehicles towed, and 100 violations of City Ordinance summonses issued.
In July, these efforts led to 69 cleared warrants, 383 motor vehicle stops, 733 motor vehicle summonses issued, 54 vehicles towed, and 201 violations of City Ordinance summonses issued.
In August, 154 warrants were cleared, 468 motor vehicle stops conducted, 780 motor vehicle summonses issued, 93 vehicles towed, and 165 violations of City Ordinance summonses issued.
From September 1 – 10, there were 31 warrants cleared, 133 motor vehicle stops, 236 motor vehicle summonses, 15 vehicles towed, and 32 violations of City Ordinance summonses issued.
In total, the Initiative resulted in 333 warrants cleared, 1375 motor vehicle stops, 2270 motor vehicle summonses, 204 vehicles towed, and 498 violations.
Cumulatively, these efforts resulted in the seizure of 584 grams of crack-cocaine, 8254 decks of heroin, 61 firearms, and $53,309 in cash off city streets and out of the hands of drug and firearm traffickers. 342 arrests were conducted over the course of the summer.
“I want to thank every Officer and Detective who played a part in making the Summer Initiative successful. After a hectic start, we were able to curb the violence and make the Capital City a safer place for all residents during the Summer and will continue to do so as the year goes on,” Director Wilson said.
Distribution Center to be Used to Store Toys for this Holiday Season
December 21, 2024
PERTH AMBOY – Santa Claus is coming to Perth Amboy. Because that’s where all the toys will be, ready for distribution across northern New Jersey.
The toys will be stored at a 10,000-square-foot warehouse at 1160 State St., generously donated by Bridge Industrial. The warehouse will host “Toys for Tots,” which provides a happy holiday of gifts for thousands of children each year.
The benevolent gesture came after Toys for Tots, a non-profit organization that collects and distributes gifts for children with need, sought a distribution site in central New Jersey to support this year’s Newark area campaign.
“The Toys for Tots organization shares the value of generosity we hold in our city,” Perth Amboy Mayor Helmin J. Caba said. “We are devoted to improving the lives of people both within and beyond our borders, and our work with Toys for Tots is helping us achieve this mission.”
Toys for Tots Coordinator and US Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. John Sardine, who is leading the North Jersey campaign, reached out to Mayor Caba to help secure a warehouse to store the toys. The pair had collaborated on Toys for Tots initiatives for the past three years.
Caba, along with Perth Amboy Redevelopment Agency Executive Director Tashi Vazquez, seized the opportunity to offer assistance to the great cause and connected Sardine with Bridge Industrial, the commercial real estate company that owns the State Street warehouse.
The answer from Bridge Industrial was an emphatic “yes, of course.”
“It feels great to be able to give back to the community in such a major way,” said Jeff Milanaik, a Northeast Region Partner at Bridge Industrial. “Toys for Tots is a special organization, and we are glad to play a part in bringing joy to children this holiday season.”
The donation includes more than 10,000 square feet of storage. With Christmas Eve days away, Toys for Tots is quickly filling the warehouse with toys slated for delivery in Union, Bergen, Essex, Hudson, and Passaic counties. With easy access to major state roads such as the Garden State Parkway and New Jersey Turnpike, Perth Amboy is an ideal distribution center for the toys.
“Perth Amboy’s central location gives us efficient and easy connectivity to the rest of New Jersey,” Vazquez said. “We are pleased to be able to use this connectivity for charitable purposes and bridge the gap between Toys for Tots and the northern portion of our state.”
“Mayor Caba, the Perth Amboy Redevelopment Agency, and Bridge Industrial have been great partners in helping us secure a much-needed warehouse for our first North Jersey campaign,” Sardine added. “The City and Bridge Industrial’s generosity will help bring joy to the holiday season for thousands of kids who will now be able to open amazing presents their families may have not been able to afford otherwise.”
Photo by EKATERINA BOLOVTSOVA on Pexels.com
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