Toms River News

New Jersey man kills mother during Florida visit, leaves body in dumpster

Son kills mother during visit, leaves body in dumpster

MIAMI BEACH, FL – A man is charged with murder after his mother flew to Florida to check on him, only to be killed and found in a dumpster. Anthony Caruso, 40, is charged with second-degree murder in the death of 67-year-old Elizabeth Caruso. He is currently being held without bond at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center.

The incident occurred on Wednesday when Elizabeth Caruso arrived from New Jersey. Surveillance footage shows her speaking to a hotel clerk across from her son’s residence before she was found dead hours later. An arrest affidavit indicated her neck was “severely injured nearly to the point of decapitation.”

Hours after Elizabeth Caruso’s arrival, law enforcement was contacted after concerns from her son-in-law. He reported he had not heard from her for over six hours. When police arrived at the building, they discovered blood smears leading from the apartment to an open trash chute.

Authorities found Elizabeth Caruso’s body in the dumpster during their investigation. The medical examiner noted her severe neck injuries along with fractures to her arms, hands, face, and head.

When police attempted to engage Anthony Caruso at his apartment, he did not respond. A SWAT team was deployed to the scene. After unsuccessful attempts to get him to surrender, a K9 apprehended him. He sustained injuries to his right arm during this process and was treated before his arrest.

Christopher Bess from the Miami Beach Police Department stated they believed the suspect might be suffering from a mental illness. The motive for the killing remains unclear at this time.

Anthony Caruso was reportedly on probation for previous charges, including aggravated assault and battery. He is expected to appear in court on November 20.

The shocking death has raised serious questions about the tragic events leading to Elizabeth Caruso’s demise.

Toms River man sentenced to six years in prison for firearm offense

Toms River man sentenced to six years in prison for firearm offense

TOMS RIVER, NJ – Amir Reid, 32, of Toms River, was sentenced to six years in New Jersey State Prison by the Honorable Kimarie Rahill, J.S.C. on October 10. The sentence includes a five-year period of parole ineligibility following Reid’s guilty plea to being a Certain Person Not to Possess a Firearm.

The incident leading to the sentence took place on July 2, 2023, at approximately 5:20 p.m. Officers from the South Toms River Police Department conducted a motor vehicle stop on a 2016 Chevrolet Impala after discovering that the vehicle’s registration was expired.

During the stop, Reid was driving the vehicle with a male passenger. Officers reported that Reid could not provide valid proof of registration or insurance. The officers then ordered both occupants to exit the vehicle while the South Toms River Police Department Narcotics Detection K-9 Unit performed an open-air sniff.

The K-9 alerted officers to the presence of narcotics in the vehicle. A subsequent search uncovered a quantity of methamphetamine and a loaded 9mm Taurus semi-automatic handgun. Due to a prior conviction for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Reid was classified as a Certain Person Not to Possess a Firearm in New Jersey.

Both Reid and the passenger were taken into custody and charged. They were transported to the Ocean County Jail but later released due to New Jersey Bail Reform. Reid exonerated the co-defendant passenger on the day of his guilty plea, leading to dismissal of charges against that individual.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer commended Assistant Prosecutor Lynn Juan and the South Toms River Police Department for their roles in this case. “We appreciate the diligent efforts of all involved in bringing this case to a close.”

Reid’s sentencing underscores the state’s commitment to enforcing strict firearm possession laws while emphasizing police and prosecutorial cooperation.

A Toms River man faces significant prison time for illegally possessing a firearm.

AG Platkin Says He Will Fight as New Jersey Magazine Ban Faces Biggest Challenge Yet

Attorney General defends New Jersey’s gun laws as court case looms

PHILADELPHIA — New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin issued a statement as oral arguments began at the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit regarding ANJRPC v. Platkin. The Attorney General emphasized the impact of New Jersey’s gun safety laws, stating that they led to record low numbers of shootings in the state over the last two years.

Platkin said, “This significant achievement is under threat by the gun lobby seeking to bolster their profits at the cost of the lives of New Jerseyans.” He noted the commitment of the Murphy Administration to saving lives in New Jersey through various initiatives, including the establishment of the Statewide Affirmative Firearms Enforcement Office.

Today’s hearing will involve defending longstanding restrictions on assault weapons and large capacity magazines, laws that have been in place for 35 years. These laws continue to be positioned as crucial for protecting residents.

According to Platkin, these weapons are poorly suited for civilian self-defense and are instead designed for military combat. He stated that they are disproportionately used in mass shootings nationwide, referencing events such as the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting and the Las Vegas mass shooting.

All Circuits that have reviewed Second Amendment challenges to similar bans post-Bruen have rejected those challenges. Solicitor General Jeremy Feigenbaum is set to represent the state during today’s arguments before the Third Circuit.

The implications of the ruling could influence gun control measures across the United States as New Jersey maintains its stance on gun safety laws.

As the Third Circuit hears these critical arguments, the future of New Jersey’s stringent gun policies hangs in the balance.

Nor’easter prompts high and dry parking plans in Toms River

Toms River Police Dept. - File Photo

Nor’easter prompts parking guidance in Toms River

TOMS RIVER, NJ – Residents are advised on parking options during the nor’easter this weekend. The township has allowed residents to park at any of the township parks, with specific recommendations for locations.

Castle Park, located at 1511 N. Bay Ave., is one of the designated areas. Bey Lea Park can be accessed through the Bay Ave. entrance by the tennis courts. Skyview Park also provides parking at 811 Vaughn Ave.

High School East is another option, but vehicles must be removed from the premises by 11 PM on Monday night. The guidance aims to facilitate parking during the severe weather conditions expected this weekend.

The township’s decision comes as a response to help residents manage parking effectively amid the inclement weather. More information regarding potential impacts of the storm is expected to be released as conditions develop.

Residents are urged to utilize these designated areas for their convenience. The township continues to monitor the situation closely.

As the nor’easter approaches, Toms River prepares residents for parking challenges.

New Jersey State Police honor tradition at final Yankees playoff game of 2025

New Jersey State Police honor tradition at Yankees game

TRENTON, NJ – The New Jersey State Police Ceremonial Unit Color Guard presented the colors at the New York Yankees game held at Yankee Stadium on Wednesday. Although the Yankees did not secure a victory, the unit expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate in this significant event.

A representative from the New Jersey State Police stated, “We’re grateful to the organization for the invitation and the opportunity to take part in such a proud tradition.” The Color Guard’s presence is viewed as an important aspect of the game-day ceremony.

The Yankees, despite their loss, were commended for their long-standing tradition of honoring public service organizations. This inclusion fosters a connection between the team and local law enforcement.

The participation of the Color Guard reflects the ongoing partnership between the New Jersey State Police and community events. Such collaborations highlight the role of law enforcement in supporting local sports teams and engaging with the public.

As the baseball season concludes, the New Jersey State Police look forward to future collaborations with the Yankees. They expressed anticipation for the team’s return next season and hope for success in the months ahead.

The presentation of colors is a customary practice at sporting events, symbolizing respect and unity among participants and spectators. It reinforces the bond between law enforcement and the community.

The New Jersey State Police Ceremonial Unit has a history of participating in significant events across the state, underlining their commitment to community engagement and public service.

In conclusion, the New Jersey State Police Color Guard’s involvement at the Yankees game exemplifies their dedication to honoring traditions and building community ties.