Teen charged after Perth Amboy Water Street shooting left 17 year old wounded

May 23, 2026

Police say the investigation remains active as detectives continue reviewing evidence in the juvenile gun case

PERTH AMBOY, N.J. — A teenage suspect has been charged in connection with a shooting on Water Street that left another 17-year-old wounded earlier this month, according to Perth Amboy police.

Authorities announced Friday that initial charges have been filed following the May 14 shooting investigation.

Police said a 17-year-old male from Elizabeth was shot in the arm during the incident.

Investigators have now arrested a 17-year-old Perth Amboy resident and charged the teen with juvenile delinquency offenses that, if committed by an adult, would include unlawful possession of a firearm and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose.

Because both the suspect and victim are juveniles, police are not releasing identifying information.

Officials said the investigation remains active and additional charges are possible as detectives continue reviewing evidence, analyzing surveillance footage, and following investigative leads connected to the shooting.

Perth Amboy Police Chief Lawrence Cattano said investigators worked extensively to develop the case before publicly releasing additional information.

Authorities also clarified that the shooting did not occur inside a city park or at the marina, despite reports that circulated following the incident.

Mayor Helmin J. Caba praised detectives and officers involved in the investigation and thanked residents for their cooperation throughout the case.

Police are asking anyone with information related to the shooting to contact Detective Gina Betancourt at 732-324-3819.

The investigation remains ongoing.


Key Points

  • A 17-year-old suspect was charged in connection with the Water Street shooting in Perth Amboy
  • The victim, also 17, suffered a gunshot wound to the arm
  • Police said additional charges may still be filed as the investigation continues