Crime & Safety
Mercer Dad Killed While Protecting Kids During Carjacking: Officials
The dad suffered multiple gunshot wounds while his two children were strapped to their car seats, Trenton Police said.
MERCER COUNTY, NJ — A Mercer County man was killed protecting his children during a carjacking in Trenton on Friday, Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora said.
On Friday night, around 10:20 p.m., authorities received a call reporting an overturned vehicle in the area of Garfield and Farragut Avenues.
On arrival, police found a white Durango overturned. Inside they found Johny Emmanuel Cruz Rodrigez with multiple gunshot wounds, as well as two children strapped to their car seats who were unharmed, Trenton Police said.
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Witnesses told police that Cruz Rodrigez was standing at the open back of the Durango when unidentified people entered the vehicle and attempted to drive away.
Cruz Rodrigez attempted to climb the rear of the vehicle when multiple gunshots were fired and the vehicle crashed a short distance away, police said.
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Cruz Rodrigez was pronounced dead at the scene.
Gusciora called the incident a “senseless act of violence.”
“This was a carjacking that tragically escalated, resulting in the fatal shooting of the male victim.The victim heroically intervened to protect his children, leading to a struggle that ended in tragedy,” Gusciora said. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and loved ones of the victim during this incredibly difficult time. We are working closely with law enforcement to bring those responsible to justice swiftly.”
“As a community, we stand united against such acts of violence. Trenton is a resilient city, and we will support each other as we navigate through this tragedy together,” Gusciora said.
The Mercer County Homicide Task Force (MCHTF), the Mercer County Serious Collision Response Team (SCRT) and the Trenton Police Department are investigating.
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact MCHTF Detective Chris Pullen at (848) 992-6436 or Sgt. Will Jett at (609) 331-5010. Information can also be emailed to mchtftips@mercercounty.org.
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