Newton, NJ – Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin, New Jersey State Police Superintendent Patrick J. Callahan, and Acting Sussex County Prosecutor Carolyn A. Murray have confirmed the arrest of Nicolas R. Martinez following a tense standoff at the Cobmin Ridge Motel on Route 206 in Branchville, NJ.
The incident, which started as a welfare check at around 6 PM on January 30, escalated into an armed confrontation. State troopers, upon arriving at the motel, engaged with Martinez, who was staying in one of the rooms. Despite efforts to peacefully resolve the situation, Martinez refused to exit the room and began firing a weapon out of the window at the State Police TEAMS (Technical Emergency and Mission Specialist) unit.
After hours of failed negotiation attempts, the situation reached a climax at approximately 4 AM when the NJ State Police TEAMS unit breached the motel room. Martinez reacted by firing multiple rounds from an air rifle at the officers, resulting in injuries to two State Troopers. Following this exchange, Martinez was successfully taken into custody.
Nicolas R. Martinez, 27 years old, faces serious charges including two counts of attempted murder, terroristic threats, unlawful possession of an air rifle, and related weapons offenses.
This incident underscores the risks and challenges faced by law enforcement in managing volatile situations. The injured troopers are a reminder of the dangers inherent in police work, especially in situations involving armed individuals. The authorities have commended the TEAMS unit for their bravery and professionalism in handling this dangerous and prolonged standoff.