A cross-country trip fueled by jealousy ended in a fatal stabbing outside a suburban New Jersey home, where a respected veterinarian was found dead in his front yard. The case has now reached a turning point after the suspect admitted guilt in court.
CHERRY HILL, NJ – A 28-year-old Oregon man has pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in the killing of a South Jersey veterinarian, a crime prosecutors say was driven by jealousy over a former relationship. Cristian Custodio-Aquino admitted to fatally stabbing 45-year-old Michael Anthony outside his home on Sharrowvale Road, according to the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office.
Police responded around 7 a.m. on Dec. 10, 2024, after Anthony’s teenage son called 911 when his father failed to return from a morning walk. Officers found Anthony in the front yard suffering from multiple stab wounds to the neck, head, and body. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Evidence and arrest across the country
Investigators recovered key evidence near the victim, including a pair of transition eyeglasses containing Custodio-Aquino’s DNA. Authorities also located the suspect’s Nissan Altima, which contained Anthony’s blood.
According to courtroom reporting cited by prosecutors, Custodio-Aquino drove from Oregon to New Jersey and waited outside Anthony’s home. When Anthony stepped outside, he was attacked and stabbed multiple times before the suspect fled.
“This is a murder,” Assistant Camden County Prosecutor Kevin Moran said. “This was a brutal, violent attack. This defendant assassinated Dr. Michael Anthony.”
Custodio-Aquino then drove across the country and was arrested about three months later in Fresno, California. Officials said he remained in custody following his arrest and had allegedly searched for news about the killing while attempting to sell his car.
Community impact and victim legacy
Anthony, who owned Haddon Vet in Haddon Heights, was described as a dedicated professional known for his care toward both animals and their owners. His obituary noted he “treated not only the family pet but also the worry in their human companions,” and that he was respected for his “expertise, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of animals.”
“The tragic loss of Dr. Michael Anthony deeply affected the Camden County community and all those who knew him,” Camden County Prosecutor Grace C. MacAulay said. “I commend the outstanding work of the detectives and prosecutors whose persistence and commitment to justice were instrumental in identifying and locating the defendant in California months after Dr. Anthony’s death. This guilty plea represents a significant step toward justice and ensures the defendant will be held accountable for his actions.”
She added, “While no outcome can undo the profound loss suffered by Dr. Anthony’s family and loved ones, we hope it provides a measure of closure as we remember Dr. Anthony’s lasting legacy of compassion and dedicated service to the communities he faithfully served.”
Custodio-Aquino is expected to be sentenced to 30 years in prison at a hearing scheduled for July 9.
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