May 15, 2024
Manchester Twp NJ – Manchester Police Department swiftly responded to the sound of gunshots early Sunday morning, leading to the apprehension of a suspect involved in the reckless discharge of a firearm.
On Sunday, May 12, 2024, at approximately 0209 hours, Ptl. Maliff was conducting patrols in the area of Manchester Boulevard and Wranglebrook Road, when he heard several gunshots. Ptl. Maliff quickly identified a vehicle coming from the area and conducted a motor vehicle stop. During the on-scene investigation, a 9mm handgun and ammunition were seized from the vehicle. It is suspected that the driver, Nathaniel Chudkowski, fired the weapon into the wooded area of Manchester Boulevard while driving in the area. Due to the swift response and decisive actions of our officers any public safety threat was quickly eliminated.
As a result of the investigation, Chudkowski was charged with possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, failure for a permit to carry holder to disclose to a law enforcement officer that they are carrying a handgun or that a handgun is stored in the vehicle, and consumption of alcohol by an authorized holder of a permit to carry a handgun. He was lodged in Ocean County Jail pending a detention hearing.
The criminal charges are merely an accusation, 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.
Residents are reminded that they may report suspicious activity to the Manchester Police anonymously at 732-657-6111 or online via the Department’s website, www.manchesterpolicenj.com, by clicking the “Tip Line” link.
