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New York City Police Department Patrol Vehicle - NYC Crime and Police News

Man Shot and Killed, Children Briefly Abducted During Trenton Carjacking

July 13, 2024

Trenton, NJ — The Mercer County Prosecutor, Angelo J. Onofri, announced that a joint investigation is being conducted by the Mercer County Homicide Task Force (MCHTF), the Mercer County Serious Collision Response Team (SCRT), and the Trenton Police Department following a tragic incident last night that resulted in the death of a man.

On July 12, at around 10:20 PM, Trenton emergency services responded to multiple calls about an accident at the intersection of Garfield and Farragut Avenues. Responders found an overturned white Durango with the victim, Johny Emmanuel Cruz-Rodriguez, inside, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Also found in the vehicle were two minor children, who were strapped into car seats and unharmed.

Witnesses reported that Cruz-Rodriguez was at the open rear of the Durango when an unidentified suspect commandeered the vehicle. As Cruz-Rodriguez attempted to enter the rear of the moving vehicle, multiple gunshots were fired, and the vehicle crashed shortly thereafter. Cruz-Rodriguez was pronounced dead at the scene at approximately 10:39 PM.

The investigation into this incident is ongoing. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact MCHTF Detective Chris Pullen at (848) 992-6436 or Sgt. Will Jett at (609) 331-5010. Tips can also be sent via email to mchtftips@mercercounty.org.

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