TRENTON, NJ – The state grand jury has concluded its deliberations regarding the death of Joshua Gonzalez, 20, of Millville, N.J., who was fatally shot by Vineland Police Sgt. Louis Platania on December 18, 2021.
The jury voted “no bill,” indicating that no criminal charges will be filed against Sgt. Platania.
The Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA) led the investigation, which was presented to the state grand jury. This process included witness interviews, forensic evidence collection, and a review of body-worn camera footage, video surveillance, and autopsy results.
On the day of the incident, Vineland Police Department officers responded to reports of an individual operating a construction backhoe erratically and causing damage. Mr. Gonzalez, operating the backhoe, caused extensive damage to residences and vehicles. Sgt. Platania approached the backhoe on foot and fired his service weapon, resulting in Mr. Gonzalez’s death.
The Attorney General’s Office is mandated to investigate deaths occurring during encounters with law enforcement officers. This investigation was reviewed by OPIA Executive Director Thomas Eicher, ensuring adherence to standard operating procedures.