TOMS RIVER, N.J. — Two Lakewood men have been charged with murder in connection with the 2010 shooting death of Rondell Proctor, following a renewed investigation that used modern forensic testing, Ocean County authorities announced Tuesday.
Maurice Cole, 36, and Jerron Evans, 41, were arrested on December 3 without incident and are being held at the Ocean County Jail pending a detention hearing, according to Ocean County First Assistant Prosecutor Michael T. Nolan Jr.
The charges stem from an incident on May 27, 2010, when officers responded to the Winteringham Village Apartments on Route 166 in Toms River for a report of a shooting. Police discovered 22-year-old Rondell Proctor, of Arkansas, with multiple gunshot wounds to his torso and face. Proctor was transported to Community Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.
The case remained unsolved for years despite an extensive investigation. However, advancements in forensic technology and further investigative efforts led to new evidence linking Cole and Evans to the homicide, officials said.
First Assistant Prosecutor Nolan praised the collaborative efforts of local, county, and federal law enforcement agencies, including the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Toms River Township Police Department, Ocean County Regional SWAT Team, and the FBI, among others, in bringing charges in the 14-year-old case.
The arrests mark a significant development in a long-standing cold case that authorities say demonstrates their commitment to seeking justice for victims and their families.