Manchester man charged with attempted murder after beating 71-year-old mother

MANCHESTER TWP., N.J. — A 44-year-old Manchester man has been charged with attempted murder and multiple weapons offenses after allegedly assaulting his mother at a mobile home community on Friday afternoon, authorities said.

Joseph Cavallaro was arrested following an incident reported around 12:15 p.m. at the Pine Acres Manor Mobile Home Community, according to Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer. Police responding to the scene found a 71-year-old woman with serious injuries to her face and body.

The woman, identified as Cavallaro’s mother, was transported to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, where she remains in critical but stable condition.

Investigators determined Cavallaro used a cane to beat the victim during the assault. He was taken into custody at the scene but suffered a medical episode shortly after and was transported to Community Medical Center in Toms River. He is reported to be in stable condition.

Charges include multiple weapons and assault counts

Cavallaro is charged with attempted murder, aggravated assault, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and unlawful possession of a weapon. He will be lodged in the Ocean County Jail once released from medical care, pending a detention hearing.

Authorities have not released a motive in the attack. The investigation is ongoing and being led by the Manchester Township Police Department in coordination with the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office.

The victim remains hospitalized as officials continue to gather evidence related to the assault.

Prosecutors say Cavallaro brutally beat his elderly mother with a cane in an attack that left her critically injured.

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