TOMS RIVER, N.J. — A Monmouth Beach man initially charged with attempted murder in connection with a stabbing last week in Ortley Beach is now facing a murder charge, according to court records.
The incident occurred Thursday on the 200 block of Harding Avenue, where officers from the Toms River Police Department responded to a reported disturbance. Police found Patrick Robertelli, 57, of Monmouth Beach, and Michael Abrams, 52, of Toms River, physically fighting in front of the residence.
Authorities said Abrams had been stabbed multiple times. He was airlifted to Jersey Shore Medical Center in Neptune with life-threatening injuries. Robertelli was arrested at the scene without incident.
Police said Robertelli had gone to the home to confront Abrams. During the altercation, Robertelli allegedly stabbed Abrams repeatedly. A knife believed to be the weapon was recovered at the scene.
Robertelli was initially charged with attempted murder, aggravated assault, harassment, stalking, and two weapons offenses. He was lodged in Ocean County Jail pending a detention hearing.
On Friday, court records were updated to reflect that Robertelli now faces a murder charge. The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office and Ocean County Sheriff’s Department are assisting in the ongoing investigation.