A threatening note and gunfire targeting vehicle led to sweeping arrests across New Jersey
Rochelle Park, NJ – Four individuals have been charged in connection with a 2024 shooting that targeted a vehicle in a Bergen County neighborhood, following a 16-month investigation that authorities say uncovered a coordinated plot involving threats and gunfire. One of the suspects remains a fugitive as the investigation continues.
Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella announced the arrests of Rafaela R. Almeida, 28, and Ryoma M. Johns, 25, both of Newark, along with charges against Ruan G. Rodrigues-Monteiro, 31, formerly of Bloomfield, and Igor Gomes Espindola DaSilva, 30, formerly of Newark.
The charges stem from a November 22, 2024 incident in which Rochelle Park police responded around 8:13 p.m. to reports of gunfire near Marion Avenue. Officers located ballistic evidence, a vehicle struck by multiple bullets, and a note left on the windshield threatening the intended victim and their family.
Investigation details alleged conspiracy
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Key Points
- Four suspects charged in connection to 2024 Rochelle Park shooting
- Investigation alleges coordinated plot involving threats and gunfire
- One suspect remains at large; shooter still unidentified
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According to prosecutors, the investigation determined that Rodrigues-Monteiro organized the incident, working with Almeida, Johns, and DaSilva to threaten the victim and arrange the shooting of the unoccupied vehicle. Authorities said the individual who fired the shots has not yet been identified.
“This investigation determined that RODRIGUES-MONTEIRO coordinated and conspired with other suspects… to threaten the victim and shoot at the victim’s unoccupied vehicle,” the prosecutor’s office stated.
Almeida and Johns were arrested March 5 near their Newark residences and later released pending court proceedings. Rodrigues-Monteiro was served with charges on March 12 while already incarcerated on an unrelated matter.
Fugitive sought as investigation continues
DaSilva remains at large, and authorities are asking for the public’s help in locating him. Investigators also continue to seek the identity of the shooter involved in the incident.
Rodrigues-Monteiro faces the most serious charge of first-degree promotion of organized street crime, along with additional conspiracy-related charges. The other defendants face second-degree conspiracy charges, with Johns also charged with conspiracy to commit terroristic threats.
Authorities are urging anyone with information, including DaSilva’s whereabouts, to contact the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office tips line.