Man Flaunted Assault Rifle From Car Window In Jersey Shore Town: Prosecutor

WILDWOOD, NJ — A South Jersey man is accused of brandishing an assault rifle from a car window ahead of a busy Memorial Day weekend in Wildwood, the Cape May County Prosecutor's Office said.

Wildwood police were alerted to the incident on May 21, when a man was seen displaying the weapon from the driver's side window, Cape May County Prosecutor Jeffrey H. Sutherland and Wildwood Police Department Chief Joseph Murphy announced in a joint release.

Authorities obtained video footage of the incident and were able to identify the man as 21-year-old Ahmed Omera, a Bridgeton resident, officials said.

On May 22, detectives executed a court-authorized search warrant on Omera's home. Omera was taken into custody and an assault rifle believed to be the one used in the Wildwood incident was recovered, officials said.

Omera was charged with possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose and is lodged at the Cape May County Correctional Facility pending a detention hearing.

Authorities are using this as a reminder that they are taking safety seriously ahead of Memorial Day weekend, one of the busiest times at the Jersey Shore. Read more: These Safety Measures Will Be In Place At Jersey Shore Town This Summer

"Let me be clear: the Wildwood Police Department has zero tolerance for this type of behavior—this Memorial Day weekend and throughout the summer season," Murphy said. "We are committed to maintaining public safety, and any individual who comes to Wildwood intending to engage in unlawful activity will be met with swift and decisive action. Our officers, alongside our law enforcement partners, are fully prepared to arrest and apprehend anyone who threatens the well-being of our residents and visitors. Wildwood is a place for families, friends, and peaceful celebration—not for those who incite fear or chaos."

"This arrest sends a clear message that such reckless behavior will not be tolerated in the city of Wildwood or anywhere in Cape May County," Sutherland said.