June 26, 2023
LAWRENCE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Lawrence Township Police reported that on June 26, 2023 at approximately 10:15 a.m., Lawrence Township Police Officers responded to Rider University for a report of a man that was shot with an unknown projectile.
Officers interviewed the victim who stated that while he was walking on campus, a car drove past him and fired an unknown weapon towards him. The victim stated that he was struck by a projectile on is right temple causing minor pain and discomfort.
The suspect vehicle and occupants were located a short time later on campus. During the investigation, a plastic camouflage toy gun that fires water filled projectiles was recovered. Additionally, a BB gun and extendable baton were also recovered.
Alan Morales-Garcia (19 years old) of Hamilton Township, NJ was arrested on-scene and charged with Simple Assault Negligent Cause of Bodily Injury, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon on an Education Institute, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon and Possession of a Weapon for Unlawful Purposes. Morales-Garcia was lodged at the Mercer County Correctional Center awaiting a Detention Hearing.
A similar incident occurred in the Quakerbridge Mall parking lot near upper level Macys, on Friday June 23, 2023 at approximately 8:15pm. That incident is still under investigation.
Anyone with information regarding the incident at Rider University or the Quakerbridge Mall is asked to contact Detective James Steimle at 609-844-7135 or [email protected].
**All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law**
A similar incident occurred in the Quakerbridge Mall parking lot near upper level Macys, on Friday June 23, 2023 at approximately 8:15pm. That incident is still under investigation. File photos