Suspect Maliciously Drove Onto Field Near Large Group In West Deptford: Police

WEST DEPTFORD, NJ — A suspect is in custody after driving recklessly on a playing field during a football practice and crashing into a light standard Wednesday in West Deptford, police said.

Authorities believe the driver's actions were "deliberate and intended to cause harm to individuals at the complex," West Deptford Police Chief Michael Franks said Friday.

Police have not released the suspect's name as of Friday afternoon.

At around 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, the suspect drove recklessly on the fields at the RiverWinds Community Center, police said.

They drove near a "large group" of people gathered for football practice and ultimately struck a light standard, Franks said.

The driver was arrested at the scene and charged with endangering the welfare of children (third-degree), criminal mischief (fourth-degree) and simple assault (disorderly persons offense). They were also charged with several motor-vehicle violations.

The investigation remains active. West Deptford police are working with the Gloucester County Prosecutor's Office to determine whether additional charges are appropriate.

"The accused remains in custody and is no longer a threat to the community," Franks said. "At this time, we believe this is an isolated incident."

The township administrator and elected officials have been briefed on the incident.

Officers will be deployed at the RiverWinds complex during events and public gatherings to provide "increased police visibility and community reassurance," Franks said.

Additional safety protocols are under consideration.

RiverWinds Community Center is owned and operated by the township. It is located at 1000 RiverWinds Dr.