June 26, 2023

LAWRENCE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Lawrence Township Police reported that on June 26, 2023 at approximately 10:15 a.m., Lawrence Township Police Officers responded to Rider University for a report of a man that was shot with an unknown projectile.

Officers interviewed the victim who stated that while he was walking on campus, a car drove past him and fired an unknown weapon towards him. The victim stated that he was struck by a projectile on is right temple causing minor pain and discomfort.

The suspect vehicle and occupants were located a short time later on campus. During the investigation, a plastic camouflage toy gun that fires water filled projectiles was recovered. Additionally, a BB gun and extendable baton were also recovered.

Alan Morales-Garcia (19 years old) of Hamilton Township, NJ was arrested on-scene and charged with Simple Assault Negligent Cause of Bodily Injury, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon on an Education Institute, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon and Possession of a Weapon for Unlawful Purposes. Morales-Garcia was lodged at the Mercer County Correctional Center awaiting a Detention Hearing.

A similar incident occurred in the Quakerbridge Mall parking lot near upper level Macys, on Friday June 23, 2023 at approximately 8:15pm. That incident is still under investigation.

Anyone with information regarding the incident at Rider University or the Quakerbridge Mall is asked to contact Detective James Steimle at 609-844-7135 or jsteimle@lawrencetwp.com.

**All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law**

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A similar incident occurred in the Quakerbridge Mall parking lot near upper level Macys, on Friday June 23, 2023 at approximately 8:15pm. That incident is still under investigation. File photos