GLOUCESTER TOWNSHIP, N.J. — A Blackwood man faces multiple weapons and criminal mischief charges after police say he repeatedly fired a “less lethal” projectile weapon in busy commercial parking lots, prompting emergency responses from officers and alarming nearby businesses and shoppers.
Gary Garadetsky, 61, of the 600 block of Masters Drive in Blackwood, was arrested following a months-long investigation into a series of incidents along the Blackwood Clementon Road corridor, according to the Gloucester Township Police Department.
Investigators said the incidents occurred between December 2025 and May 2026 and initially generated reports of possible active gunfire in commercial areas because witnesses believed an actual firearm had been discharged.
Police said the alleged shootings caused property damage and triggered heightened emergency responses as officers rushed to scenes where businesses and civilians feared a potentially active shooter situation.
Detectives Identified “Less Lethal” Projectile Devices
During the investigation, Gloucester Township detectives identified Garadetsky as the suspect and determined the weapon involved was believed to be a commercially marketed “less lethal” or “self-defense” launcher.
According to police, the devices fire solid metal kinetic ball projectiles capable of causing damage or injury despite being sold as alternatives to traditional firearms.
Authorities executed a search warrant May 19 at Garadetsky’s residence and vehicle with assistance from the Gloucester Township Special Response Team.
During the search, officers recovered four projectile-launching devices along with numerous solid metal ball projectiles, police said.
Multiple Weapons Charges Filed
Garadetsky was charged with:
• Three counts of third-degree possession of prohibited weapons and devices
• Three counts of fourth-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose
• Three counts of criminal mischief
Police said he was remanded to the Camden County Jail pending court proceedings.
Authorities did not release details about the extent of the property damage or identify the specific commercial locations involved in the incidents.
Key Points
• Gloucester Township police arrested a Blackwood man after months-long weapons investigation
• Reports of possible gunfire in parking lots triggered emergency police responses
• Officers recovered four “less lethal” projectile devices and metal ball ammunition
Incidents Raised Public Safety Concerns
The investigation highlights growing concerns among law enforcement agencies about the misuse of “less lethal” weapons that can closely resemble firearms and create panic during public incidents.
Police said the repeated discharges in populated commercial areas caused businesses and residents to fear active shooter scenarios, increasing risks for both responding officers and civilians.
Many projectile-launching self-defense devices are marketed online and in stores as alternatives to firearms, but authorities warn they can still inflict serious injuries and lead to criminal charges when misused.
The Gloucester Township Police Department did not indicate whether additional charges could follow as the investigation continues.
New Jersey crime news, Gloucester Township Police, weapons charges
