HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–At 8:32 p.m. the Hamilton Township Fire Department was dispatched to the 100 block of North Hamilton Avenue for a house fire. Upon arrival the firefighters reported “fire though the roof” and an “all hands” was called sending additional units to the scene. Firefighters pulled multiple lines and extended ladders to the roof. The fire was placed under control in less than 20 minutes at 8:50 p.m. The fire is under investigation by the Hamilton Township Fire Marshal’s Office. No further information is available at this time.
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–A serious crash occurred on Interstate 295 North Bound involving a GMC Yukon at mile post 63 at 6:09 p.m. Preliminary information indicates that in the area of milepost 63, a GMC Yukon ran off the right side of the roadway, overturned and struck a bridge abutment, according to SFC Lawrence Peele of the New Jersey State Police.
The Hamilton Township Fire Department, RWJ EMS and Capital Health responded to the scene for the serious crash. Upon arrival the fire department they reported that there were two ejected. EMS transported two patients to the Trauma Center at Capital Health Regional Medical Center and trauma alerts were called for the patients.
Both occupants sustained moderate injuries and were transported to an area hospital in serious condition. Cause of the crash remains under investigation, according to SFC Lawrence Peele
The Coast Guard Captain of the Port (COTP) has set Port Condition X-ray for the Ports of New York and New Jersey, due to the expectation of gale force winds from Tropical Storm Henri expected to arrive within 48 hours.
These ports currently remain open with no restrictions. Mariners are advised that the COTP will further manage tropical storm conditions in the ports through vessel traffic control measures. These measures will limit vessel movement in accordance with the Standard Severe Weather Practices outlined in the Captain of the Port New York Hurricane and Severe Weather Plan. These measures will be implemented by the Vessel Traffic Service based on observed and predicted wind conditions as the storm progresses.
At this time, the COTP is not requiring vessels and barges desiring to remain in port to complete a Remaining in Port Checklist. However, port users should monitor local weather broadcasts and implement their heavy weather procedures and take immediate action to safeguard personnel and property to minimize the damage caused by high winds, unusually high tides and heavy rain.
The Coast Guard is advising the public of these important safety messages:
Stay off the water. The Coast Guard’s search and rescue capabilities degrade as storm conditions strengthen. This means help could be delayed. Boaters should heed weather watches, warnings, and small craft advisories.
Secure belongings. Owners of large boats are urged to move their vessels to inland marinas where they will be less vulnerable to breaking free of their moorings or to sustaining damage. Trailer-able boats should be pulled from the water and stored in a place that is not prone to flooding. Those who are leaving their boats in the water are reminded to remove EPIRBs and to secure life rings, lifejackets, and small boats. These items, if not properly secured, can break free and require valuable search and rescue resources be diverted to ensure people are not in distress.
Stay clear of beaches. Wave heights and currents typically increase before a storm makes landfall. Even the best swimmers can fall victim to the strong waves and rip currents caused by tropical storms or hurricanes. Swimmers should stay clear of beaches until local lifeguards and law enforcement officials say the water is safe.
Be prepared. Area residents should be prepared by developing a family plan, creating a disaster supply kit, having a place to go, securing their home and having a plan for pets. Information can be found at the National Hurricane Center’s webpage.
Stay informed. The public should monitor the progress and strength of the storm through local television, radio, and the Internet. Updated weather forecasts for the New York area can be found at the National Weather Service’s webpage. Boaters can monitor its progress on VHF radio channel 16. Information can also be obtained on small craft advisories and warnings on VHF radio channel 16.
Don’t rely on social media. People in distress should use 911 to request assistance whenever possible. Social media should not be used to report life-threatening distress due to limited resources to monitor the dozens of social media platforms during a hurricane or large-scale rescue event.
Vessels and facilities may contact the Vessel Traffic Service at SECNYVTS@uscg.mil or (718) 354-4088 with additional questions or concerns.
CAPE MAY, NJ (CAPE MAY)–The City of Cape May released a statement today about an accident involving a lifeguard yesterday. See statement below:
The City of Cape May wishes to extend our thoughts and prayers for one of the members of our Beach Patrol and his family. An incident occurred off our Reading Avenue Beach on August 19, 2021, leaving one of our lifeguards in critical condition.
Based on current information, while rowing a lifeguard boat in the ocean, the boat was broadsided by a wave and flipped over. The guard was knocked unconscious. Fellow lifeguards responded immediately to his aid. Out of respect for the family’s wishes, no other information is available at this time.
The positive impact he has had on our beach patrol is evident based on the large outpouring of love and support from his fellow guards and the Cape May community. The City of Cape May would like to thank the quick actions of the Cape May Beach Patrol, Chief Harry Back, and all first responders. The City would also like to send our deepest gratitude to all South Jersey Beach Patrols who have sent their lifeguards to the City to assist.
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–The New Jersey State Police have recovered several pieces of jewelry during a motor vehicle stop in Monmouth County and are seeking to return the recovered items to the owners.
On August 11, troopers from Troop “C” Hamilton Station stopped a vehicle reported stolen out of Howell Township in Millstone Township. During the stop, troopers recovered several pieces of stolen jewelry within the vehicle.
Troopers recovered the following items:
•Gold ring engraved with “R to M 5-25-68”
•Gold love bracelet
•Silver chain with heart and a cat in the middle
•MGH Pin
•H Pin
•Santa Pin
•Locket with leaves
•Assorted jewelry
Anyone who may be a victim is asked to contact Trooper Mario Fernandez of the New Jersey State Police Hamilton Station at 609-584-5000 ext. 5297.
The Coast Guard urges all mariners to prepare for Tropical Storm Henri before its predicted Sunday landfall.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts Henri to have wind speeds equal to or exceeding 39 mph.
The Coast Guard is reminding the public of these important safety messages:
Stay off the water. Hurricanes and tropical storms can be deadly and our ability to conduct rescues can be diminished or non-existent at the height of a storm. Be prepared, stay informed and heed storm warnings.
Be prepared. Owners of large boats are urged to move their vessels to inland marinas where they will be less vulnerable to breaking free of their moorings or to sustaining damage. Mooring lines should be doubled in case of high winds. Boats that can be trailered should be pulled from the water and stored in a place that is not prone to flooding. Those who are leaving their boats in the water are reminded to remove EPIRBs and to secure life rings, life jackets, and small boats. These items, if not properly secured, can break free and require valuable search and rescue resources to be diverted and may put first responders in harm’s way to ensure people are not in distress.
Evacuate as necessary. If mandatory evacuations are set for an area, the public should evacuate without delay. Coast Guard personnel and other emergency responders may not be able rescue those in danger during the storm.
Stay informed. The public should monitor the progress and strength of the storm through local television, radio, and the Internet. Boaters can monitor its progress on VHF radio channel 16. Information can also be obtained on small craft advisories and warnings on VHF radio channel 16.
Lookout for rip currents. As the storm approaches, rip currents will become more prevalent. Rip currents typically reach speeds of 1 to 2 feet per second-this makes rip currents especially dangerous to beachgoers as these currents can sweep even the strongest swimmer out to sea. Because rip currents move perpendicular to shore and can be very strong, beach swimmers need to be careful.
For more information on hurricane preparedness visit Ready.Gov and NOAA websites, as well as following them on Twitter.
Port conditions change based on weather forecasts, and current port conditions can be viewed on the following Coast Guard homeport webpage:
The Coast Guard is advising boaters and all persons enjoying the water this weekend to be aware of the dangers presented by the possibility of increased sea states and the potential for increased rip currents as Tropical Storm Henri passes through the Mid-Atlantic region.
Boaters who are anticipating going out over the weekend should ensure they check conditions before launching, and ensure it is safe for their vessel. In addition, wearing a life jacket, having a reliable form of communication like a marine band radio and filing a float plan are simple ways to increase survivability and direct rescuers to you accurately if you encounter trouble.
Rip currents are created from turbulent sea conditions offshore.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, an estimated 100 people are killed each year as a result of rip currents. With the arrival of Tropical Storm Henri off the Mid-Atlantic coast, rip current potential can increase.
Beachgoers should only swim where there are on-duty lifeguards and follow guidance from local authorities on surf conditions.
If you see someone in danger, do not hesitate to contact your local 911 operator.
WASHINGTON – The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is extending the face mask requirement for individuals across all transportation networks throughout the United States, including at airports, onboard commercial aircraft, on over-the-road buses, and on commuter bus and rail systems through January 18, 2022.
On January 31, TSA announced the initial face mask requirement with an expiration date of May 11. On April 30, TSA announced an extension to the face mask requirement through September 13, 2021.
Airline travelers should check with their airline on additional inflight restrictions prior to taking their trip. All commuters and travelers should check with the CDC website for additional guidance. Exemptions to the face mask requirement for travelers under the age of 2 years old and those with certain disabilities as well as civil penalty fines will also remain in place.
Travelers with questions regarding airport security screening procedures may send a message via Facebook or Twitter to @AskTSA for live assistance from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET on weekdays or 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET on weekends/holidays. Individuals who require screening assistance due to a disability, medical condition or other special circumstance may contact TSA Cares at least 72 hours in advance of their flight by calling (855) 787-2227. For additional information about TSA procedures during the COVID-19 pandemic as part of our “Stay Healthy. Stay Secure.” campaign, visit tsa.gov/coronavirus
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Interim Police Director Steve E. Wilson today announced several recent weapon and drug enforcement actions carried out by TPD in a three-day period that resulted in the seizure of six handguns, multiple high-capacity magazines and rounds of ammunition, more than 100 narcotics doses, and about $20,000 in cash.
Michael Lamont Gibbs, 48, of Trenton, was arrested on Aug. 12, 2021 during a search warrant carried out by TPD SWAT on Franklin Street. Gibbs was charged with multiple counts of unlawful gun possession, drug possession with intent to distribute, and unlawful possession of a high-capacity magazine after officers discovered two handguns – including one that was allegedly stolen – along with heroin, crack cocaine, and $1,213 in cash.
Malik J. White, 21, and Jaheim S. Hairston, 18, both of Trenton, were arrested on Aug. 13, 2021 and each charged with illegal gun possession and multiple heroin possession and distribution charges following a TPD Street Crimes Unit investigation on Jersey Street. After detectives allegedly saw White and Hairston discard a red handbag inside a parked vehicle, they stopped both suspects and called in a K-9 unit that confirmed narcotics inside the vehicle. Officers found a 9mm handgun, 110 decks of heroin, multiple rounds of ammunition and two ski masks inside the bag.
Nay’Sean Byrd, 19, of Trenton, was arrested on Aug. 14, 2021 and charged with unlawful possession of a weapon after Street Crimes Unit detectives found a 9mm handgun with a high-capacity magazine during a traffic stop in the area of Pearl Street and Hudson Street.
Kyle D. Downing-Spady, 41, and Marcus Smith, 34, of Trenton, were arrested on Aug. 14, 2021 and charged with unlawful weapon possession after Street Crimes Unit detectives conducted a motor vehicle stop in the area of Stuyvesant Avenue and Whittlesey Avenue. During the stop, detectives allegedly saw ammunition and a black handgun in plain view. They also discovered a black plastic box containing $19,377 in cash.
Alisha Rivera, 29, of Trenton, was arrested on Aug. 14, 2021 after Street Crimes Unit detectives responded to a reported street fight near New York Avenue. Upon arriving in the area, detectives were flagged down and directed to Rivera who was allegedly seen in possession of a gun. When stopped by TPD detectives, Rivera was found with .40 Caliber handgun and ammunition.
“We’re stepping up street crime enforcement where we see the most activity and get the most community complaints, which has led to marked success in taking illegal weapons and dangerous drugs off the street before they can hurt our residents,” said Director Wilson. “As always, our residents are tremendously helpful. If you see something, say something.”
These charges and allegations are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The TPD Shooting Response Team is still investigating a shooting that took place on Tuesday evening across the street from Championship Bar on Chambers Street. Detectives discovered that six rounds struck the bar building, but no one was hurt. The bar is closing due to outstanding ABC issues. Anyone with information pertaining to this incident is encouraged to contact the anonymous TPD tip line at 609-989-DRUG.
The TPD Shooting Response Team is still investigating a shooting that took place on Tuesday evening across the street from Championship Bar on Chambers Street. Detectives discovered that six rounds struck the bar building, but no one was hurt. The bar is closing due to outstanding ABC issues. Anyone with information pertaining to this incident is encouraged to contact the anonymous TPD tip line at 609-989-DRUG.
The Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Trenton Police Department are also investigating a shooting homicide in Trenton that took place Aug. 19, 2021. Anyone with related information is asked to contact Detective John Menafra of the Mercer County Homicide Task Force at (609) 989-6406. Information can also be emailed to mchtftips@mercercounty.org.
The Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Trenton Police Department are also investigating a shooting homicide in Trenton that took place Aug. 19, 2021. Anyone with related information is asked to contact Detective John Menafra of the Mercer County Homicide Task Force at (609) 989-6406. Information can also be emailed to mchtftips@mercercounty.org
CHESTERFIELD, NJ (BURLINGTON)–Yesterday, August 19, 2021 at 4:13 p.m, Chesterfield Police, Fire Department, EMS and Paramedics were sent to a pond on Colemantown Drive for a drowning victim. The victim, reported as a child was flown by Cooper 2 Medical Helicopter to the trauma center for treatment. A landing zone was set up by the fire department in a field near Colemantown Drive and Bordentown Crosswicks Road.
UPDATE: According to a spokesperson from the Burlington County Prosecutors Office an 8-year-old girl was found in a retention pond at approximately 4:00 p.m. yesterday. Police, EMS and medics arrived on location and were able to get a pulse. She was flown to St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children in Philadelphia, where she remains in critical condition. This is a tragic incident, and it was accidental. There is no suspicion of foul play.
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