WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–West Windsor Police report that the missing man was found safe early this morning in a message around 6:00 a.m. Police, Fire and Rescue crews searched many trails at Mercer County Park in to the early morning hours. No further details were provided.
May 30, 2023
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–A search is under way in the East Picnic Area of Mercer County Park and surrounding area for a man that went missing that suffers from dementia. Olegas Poplavskis walked away from his camp site earlier today and has not returned. He was last seen wearing red/yellow black striped t-shirt, black jeans, and gray shoes. If you happen to encounter Olegas Poplavskis please contact West Windsor Police Department at 609-799-1222
Olegas Poplavskis was found safe after walking away from his camp site yesterday. After an extensive search of Mercer County Park and surrounding areas it was reported he was found safe sometime before 6:00 a.m. No further details were released.
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–West Windsor Police say that at 4:21 a.m., WWPD Communications detailed Patrol Units to a Serious Motor Vehicle Crash on US Route 1 North at Washington Road. Upon Patrol’s arrival, they immediately began to render first aid to the occupants of both two vehicles. Vehicle #1 (2011 Honda Accord), which was embedded into trees in the AT&T parking lot, had been occupied by five people and was on fire. Two of the occupants were still entrapped inside of the burning car. Vehicle #2 (2023 Kia Sorrento) was found within the Penns Neck Circle disabled from the crash and sustained unknown injuries. Police Officers worked valiantly to free the remaining occupants of the Honda Accord. Princeton Junction Fire Company, West Windsor Fire Company, and West Windsor Emergency Services worked in unison to extinguish the raging fire and assist the injured parties. In addition, Princeton Fire Department, Plainsboro EMS #100, Lawrence EMS #129, Princeton EMS #168, Trenton EMS (TEMS), and Capital Health Medics arrived on scene. Ultimately, the remaining occupants were removed from Honda Accord. The front seat passenger of the Accord sustained life threatening injuries and all lifesaving efforts were being employed. The four other occupants, including the driver of Vehicle #1 and Driver #2 all sustained injuries which were later considered non-life threatening. All six of the injured were transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center for treatment. The front seat passenger of Honda Accord succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. Police say that no identities are being released at this time.
The initial investigation at the scene revealed the following: A 2011 Honda Accord was traveling east bound on Washington Road at the Penns Neck Circle (with US Route 1). 2023 Kia Sorrento was traveling north bound on US Route 1 North. The Honda Accord attempted to cross all lanes of US Route 1 North & South. The Honda Accord collided with Kia Sorrento in the US Route 1 North lanes. The Honda continued off of the roadway where it struck a traffic light stanchion and a street sign on the grass median (for Washington Road). The Honda continued in a northeasterly direction, reentered the roadway, entered into the AT&T parking lot where it struck numerous trees at the back portion of the lot, and came to its final resting place on fire. The Kia Sorrento continued in a northeasterly direction and came to its final resting place facing east in the Penns Neck Circle off of US Route 1 North.
Washington Road between US Route 1 North and Fairview Avenue was closed for approximately (5) hours. US Route 1 traffic was delayed in the area for the same duration. The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Serious Collision Response Team (MCPO SCRT) responded to the scene to assist with the ongoing investigation. If anyone has any pertinent information to share into this collision, please contact Traffic Officer E. McQuade #97 at (609) 799-1222, our Anonymous Tipline at (609) 799-0452, or McQuade@westwindsorpolice.com.
Driver #1: Resident of Somerset, NJ Passenger of Vehicle #1: Resident of Somerset, NJ *DECEASED* Passenger of Vehicle #1: Resident of Somerset, NJ Passenger of Vehicle #1: Resident of Somerset, NJ Passenger of Vehicle #1: Resident of New Brunswick, NJ
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–West Windsor Police Department reported at 1:50 p.m., today, the West Windsor Police Department Communications Center received a 9-1-1 call regarding a structure fire at a residence in Benford Estates. The call originated from a landscaper who was to perform work across the street from the blaze. Patrol Units were dispatched and arrived at the scene shortly thereafter and observed an active fire that had engulfed the kitchen area of the of the home. West Windsor Division of Fire & Emergency Services, West Windsor Volunteer Fire Company, Princeton Junction Fire Company, Plainsboro Fire Department, Princeton Fire Department and Hamilton Fire Department arrived at the scene to battle the fire. West Windsor Township Division of Fire & Emergency Services Chief Lynch deemed the fire as under control at 2:07 p.m.
The West Windsor Police Department Drone Unit responded to assist in locating any potential hot spots for the firefighters. In addition, the West Windsor Police Department Detective Bureau and the West Windsor Fire Marshal responded to conduct a thorough investigation. The initial investigation determined that the fire was accidental in nature. The West Windsor Township Construction Office determined that the residence was uninhabitable as a result of the fire. There were no injuries reported to any persons including all first responders during the incident. The residents were making alternate arrangements for shelter at the time of this release.
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)—West Windsor Police Department reported on May 6, 2023 at 2:57 p.m., the WWPD Communications Center detailed Traffic & Patrol Units to area of 15 Roszel Road for a Serious Motor Vehicle Collision. West Windsor Division of Fire & Emergency Services attended to the victim, a 73-year-old resident of Princeton, and the sole occupant of a 2014 Volkswagen Jetta. The driver sustained a head injury and was transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center in Trenton by West Windsor Division of Fire & Emergency Services. The victim’s injuries were considered life threatening.
Police say that the initial investigation revealed the following, the VW Jetta was traveling Southbound on Roszel Road on straight portion of roadway. The VW Jetta entered into the Northbound lanes and continued in a southeasterly direction where it struck the Northbound curb. The Jetta continued off of the roadway and struck a utility pole and came to its final resting place. No other vehicles were involved in the crash. It is believed that this incident may have been the result of a medical event for the driver.
Traffic & Patrol Units were able to maintain an open roadway during the investigation. If anyone has any pertinent information to share about this collision, please contact Traffic Officer F. Sabatino #83 at (609) 799-1222, our Anonymous Tipline at (609) 799-0452, or Sabatino@westwindsorpolice.com
Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo Onofri wants to warn the public of a telephone scam where a caller falsely claimed to be a law enforcement Officer employed by the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office.
On April 20, 2023, the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, Cyber Crimes Unit, was contacted by the Cranbury Township Police Department in Middlesex County and advised that a victim reported that they received a call from a number purporting to be the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office and the caller falsely claimed to be “Sergeant Whitlock” with the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office. The scammer claimed the resident had a warrant for their arrest and directed the victim to drive to a drugstore to purchase gift cards.
As a reminder, law enforcement will never ask for payment of any type over the phone, nor will they ask for personal identifying information that could be used for fraudulent purposes. Law enforcement, government agencies, and courts will never ask you to pay by unusual methods, such as gift cards, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency.
Scammers often research their potential victims on the internet and social media. Scammers will call and deceive their victims into thinking the callers are law enforcement officers, prosecutors or police employees. Scammers may spoof a law enforcement telephone number, falsely showing on the victim’s caller ID. Spoofed phone numbers are typically done through a VPN (Virtual Private Network) making it difficult for law enforcement to track the actual caller. The scammers may threaten their victims with arrest for outstanding warrants or other legal issues.
Should you receive a call from a police department within Mercer County and/or the Prosecutor’s Office, please confirm with whom you are speaking. If you believe you received a scam telephone call, hang up and call the main phone number to the police department or Prosecutor’s Office (609-989-6351). If legitimate, you’ll be connected with a Police Dispatcher or receptionist who can verify the caller’s identity. Report any scam calls to your local law enforcement agency.
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–Just after 12:00 p.m. the West Windsor Police Department, and Division of Emergency Services, West Windsor Fire responded to the intersection of Edinburg Road and New Village Road for a two-vehicle crash with one vehcile on its side. A rescue assignment was detailed for reports of entrapment. The roadway was closed until repairs were made to a downed traffic signal. West Windsor Police Department is investigating the crash. No other details are available.
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–West Windsor Police reported that on Tuesday, April 4, 2023 at 7:34 p.m., West Windsor Township Police’s Communications Center received calls regarding a Serious Motor Vehicle Collision on Old Trenton Road at Mercer County Park involving a motorcyclist. The motorcyclist was reported to have serious injuries. West Windsor Township Divison of Fire & Emergency Services, Capital Health Paramedics, and Robbinsville Township Fire Rescue all responded to the scene. The motorcyclist was transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center with severe and life-threatening head injuries.
Initial investigation revealed the following; a 2020 Harley Davidson Motorcycle was traveling northbound on Old Trenton Road when it struck the rear of a 2004 Freightliner Tractor. The Harley Davidson continued into the southbound lane of Old Trenton Road and struck a 2019 Toyota Highlander. The motorcyclist was dismounted into the southbound lane. The Harley Davidson re-entered the northbound lane of Old Trenton Road and was struck by a 2020 Ford F-150. The F-150 driver was transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center with a non-life-threatening back injury.
Police report that this incident’s investigation is fluid and ongoing. The WWPD is actively seeking anyone with pertinent information into this incident. If you have any information, please contact Traffic Officer F. Sabatino at (609) 799-1222, our Anonymous Tipline at (609) 799-0452, or Sabatino@westwindsorpolice.com. The roadway was closed in the area of the collision for just over (4) hours.
Sent under cover Internet Crimes Against Children Detective posing as a 14-Year-Old Female, multiple sexually explicit messages and photos of an adult male penis, and statements that he wanted to engage in various sexual acts.
March 21, 2023
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri reported today that an investigation into online child exploitation has resulted in the arrest of a West Deptford Township man.
Todd Merinuk, 27, West Deptford, NJ, is charged with two counts of second-degree attempted sexual assault, three counts of third-degree attempted endangering the welfare of a child and one count of second-degree attempted luring. The prosecutor’s office has filed a motion to detain Merinuk pending trial.
Approximately three weeks ago, detectives with the prosecutor’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit investigating individuals trying to exploit children online connected with a subject via an anonymous social media platform. The individual, later identified as Merunik, began chatting with a detective who was working in an undercover capacity, posing as a 14-year-old female. The chat included multiple sexually explicit messages, a photo sent by Merinuk of an adult male penis, and statements by Merinuk that he wanted to meet in person to engage in various sexual acts.
On March 16, 2023, Merinuk sent a ride share vehicle to an address in Mercer County to pick up the “14-year-old female” with whom he believed he was conversing in order to transport her to his location in Gloucester County. Believing the victim had arrived to his location via ride share, Merinuk appeared and was taken into custody without incident by members of the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office and U.S. Homeland Security Investigations.
Despite having been charged, every defendant is presumed innocent until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Second-degree crimes carry a sentence of five to 10 years in state prison and a fine of up to $150,000. Third-degree crimes carry a sentence of three to five years in state prison and a fine of up to $15,000.
Prosecutor Onofri urged anyone with information about suspected improper contact by unknown persons communicating with children via the internet or possible exploitation or sexual abuse of children to please contact his Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit at (609) 989-6568 or the New Jersey Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force tip line at (888) 648-6007.
Todd Merinuk, 27, West Deptford, NJ, is charged with two counts of second-degree attempted sexual assault, three counts of third-degree attempted endangering the welfare of a child and one count of second-degree attempted luring. The prosecutor’s office has filed a motion to detain Merinuk pending trial.
The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office is aware of a scam using letters claiming to be from a fictitious Tax Assessment Securities division of Mercer County. This is not an official notice from the Mercer County Board of Taxation.
It is believed that this is an attempt to scam residents into paying a fake tax debt. The fraudulent notice has a bold heading claiming the notice is a distraint warrant and a toll- free number listed on the letter, which may lead recipients to believe this is a legitimate piece of communication. These letters attempt to scare residents to respond by stating it is a final judgmental notice and that the recipient must call within 15 days of receiving the letter to avoid enforcement and additional penalties, fees or interest.
Residents should not take any action or call the number listed on the notice.
Property owners with questions can contact the Mercer County Board of Taxation at (609) 989-6704, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or email botinquiry@mercercounty.org.
PLAINSBORO, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–The person who was struck Tuesday night was a 39-year-old man per Plainsboro police Lt. John Bresnen. His identity is not being released pending notification of family.
February 28, 2023
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–According to Amtrak representatives, on February 28, 2023, Amtrak train 178 was traveling from Washington D.C., to Boston at approx. 6:54 p.m. when an individual who was trespassing on the track came into contact with the train east of Princeton Junction. There have been no reported injuries to the passengers or crew onboard. Amtrak is working with local law enforcement to investigate the incident. There was a hold on all four tracks as far as PHL. Track 4 was opened at 8:47 p.m.
According to the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), trespassing along railroad rights-of-way is the leading cause of rail-related deaths in America, and railroad crossing incidents are the second leading cause of rail-related deaths in America. These incidents can affect everyone involved—those who are injured or die and their families, our train crews, and our passengers. They also serve as critical reminders about the importance of obeying the law and of exercising extreme caution around railroad tracks and crossings. Amtrak continues to work closely with Operation Lifesaver (OLI) to #STOPTrackTragedies by emphasizing the obvious dangers of being on railroad property or disregarding warnings at rail crossings. For more railroad safety information, please visit StayOffTheTracks.org
1 of 2: Northeast Corridor rail service has resumed in both directions between Trenton and Penn Station New York and is subject to up to 2-hour delays following an earlier Amtrak pedestrian strike at Princeton Junction.
2 of 2: NJ TRANSIT rail tickets and passes continue to be cross-honored by NJ TRANSIT bus, private carriers and PATH at Hoboken, Newark Penn Station and 33rd Street.
NEC train #3870, the 7:45 PM PSNY arrival, Is currently delayed near Princeton Junction Station due to an Amtrak pedestrian strike. An update to follow.
NEC train #3953, the 6:54 PM arrival into Trenton, is currently delayed near Princeton due to police activity resulting from an Amtrak pedestrian strike at Princeton Station. An update will follow.
1 of 2: Northeast Corridor rail service is suspended in both directions between Trenton and Jersey Avenue due to an Amtrak pedestrian strike near Princeton Junction.
LAWRENCE TOWNSHIP, WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–The National Weather Service has confirm that a tornado was in Mercer County, NJ yesterday. The tornado was an EF-2 with 110-115 mph winds, with a path 200 yards wide and just short of 6 miles in length.
Update;
353 PM EST Wed Feb 22 2023
...NWS Damage Survey for 02/21/23 Tornado Event ...
Thunderstorms developing ahead of a cold front developed rotation
over Mercer County. In addition to wind damage and hail reports,
a tornado occurred in Mercer County.
.Lawrence Township and West Windsor Township Tornado...
Rating: EF-2
Estimated Peak Wind: 110-115 mph
Path Length /statute/: 5.8 miles
Path Width /maximum/: 200 yards
Fatalities: 0
Injuries: 0
Start Date: February 21, 2023
Start Time: 3:35 PM EST
Start Location: Lawrence Township, Mercer County, NJ
Start Lat/Lon: 40.2785/-74.7028
End Date: February 21, 2023
End Time: 3:41 PM EST
End Location: West Windsor Township, Mercer County, NJ
End Lat/Lon: 40.2701/-74.5931
Sporadic minor tree damage was observed west of Interstate 295. A
continuous path of tree damage was observed near Lawrence Station
Road, particularly in a housing development along Fountayne Lane.
Additional tree damage and damage to roofing occurred in a housing
development at Lawrence Square. Estimated maximum wind speeds in
this area were 105 to 115 mph. In a straight line from this
damage, there was roofing damage at a residence and a commercial
building as well as additional tree damage along Quaker Bridge
Road. Tree damage continued at a park across the street and
through the 2nd and 11th holes at the adjacent golf course.
Additional sporadic tree damage occurred in residential areas east
of the golf course in West Windsor Township. The last tree damage
was observed near the intersection of Old Trenton Road and Village
Road.
The National Weather Service would like to extent our
appreciation to New Jersey State Police, Mercer County Office of
Emergency Management, and Lawrence Township Police Department for
their help with the survey.
&&
EF Scale: The Enhanced Fujita Scale classifies tornadoes into the
following categories:
EF0...Weak......65 to 85 mph
EF1...Weak......86 to 110 mph
EF2...Strong....111 to 135 mph
EF3...Strong....136 to 165 mph
EF4...Violent...166 to 200 mph
EF5...Violent...>200 mph
NOTE:
The information in this statement is preliminary and subject to
change pending final review of the event and publication in NWSStorm Data.
Tornado Update from County Executive Brian M. Hughes: I met today with officials from the National Weather Service who confirmed that a tornado swept through portions of Mercer County Feb. 21 at about 4 p.m. Fortunately no injuries were reported despite the serious damage to homes, buildings, cars and landscape, including at our Mercer Oaks golf course. In Lawrence, the Lawrence Square Village neighborhood has been particularly hard hit. I’d like to thank Lawrence Police Chief Chris Longo, Mercer OEM Coordinator Bob Hartman, Lawrence OEM Coordinator Jack Oakley, the New Jersey State Police liaisons to Mercer County Emergency Management and the Red Cross for their partnership. Please keep the families who have been displaced in your thoughts, and on behalf of the entire county, thank you to all the responders who are still on the scenes at various locations.
Mercer County Photos
Public Information Statement National Weather Service Mount Holly NJ 1016 AM EST Wed Feb 22 2023
…Tornado Confirmed in Mercer County, New Jersey…
The National Weather Service office in Mount Holly, NJ has confirmed that a tornado occurred yesterday, February 21, 2023, in the Quaker Bridge area of Mercer County, New Jersey.
More details, including the path length and path width, will be available later this afternoon or early this evening via an updated Public Information Statement.
LAWRENCE, WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–Around 3:40 p.m. this afternoon (February 21, 2023) the National Weather Service, Mount Holly issued a Tornado Warning for a large portion of Mercer County with the warning stretching in to parts of Monmouth and Middlesex Counties.
Shortly after the Tornado Warning was issued Lawrence Township Police, EMS and Firefighters responded to Quakerbridge Road for a person reported trapped in a car with live wires on the vehicle. Upon arrival the person was able to exit the vehicle unharmed.
Firefighters were quickly diverted into Lawrence Square Village where several buildings were damaged and trees were down throughout the area. At least two dozen units were deemed uninhabitable by Township Officials in Lawrence Township. The Red Cross was called to set up a shelter.
Moments after Lawrence storm damage was reported West Windsor Police started receiving 9-1-1 calls about wires and trees down in the area of Edinburg Road and Conover Roads. Several trees were into homes and wires were down on several streets in the area.
The National Weather Service will be sending survey crews tomorrow to confirm any tornadic activity and a statement will be issued later in the day if indeed it was a tornado that hit the area.
West Windsor Police reported that at 3:44 p.m., numerous calls flooded the Communications Center of WWPD in regard to a significant weather event that was occurring. The following has transpired: Road Closures (as listed below), Power Lines Down, Trees into Houses.
**ROAD CLOSURES AVOID AREA**: 1) Conover Road–Entire Stretch 2) Edinburg Road–From New Village to Old Trenton Road 3) Village Road–From Old Trenton Road to Twp. Line (East Windsor Twp./Robbinsville Twp.)
**Approximately (10) houses damaged by fallen trees
The Emergency Operations Center has been opened. Chief Garofalo, his command staff, and WW Dept. of Fire & Emergency Services have met. Stations 43 & 44 have been going door to door to check on affected residences. Officers have been assisting the community at large with the trees down, road closures, power lines down. Assume all downed wires are live.
Dr. Aderhold, the Superintendent of West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional Schools has been in constant contact with Chief Garofalo. All buses are accounted for and late buses are on schedule. Assessments of affected school buildings are ongoing by Dr. Aderhold’s staff.
No injuries have been reported from this weather event in West Windsor Township. Damage assessments are ongoing. PSEG has staff on the scene. JCPL has been contacted. The WW Department of Public Works have been out in force to assist clearing the roadways of downed trees. The Developments of Dutch Neck Estates (southern portion) and Jefferson Park have seen extensive activity from the event. More updates to follow.
West Windsor Police Update:
*Approximately 300 PSEG Customers have affected service *Approximately 100-500 JCPL Customers have affected service **Most PSEG/JCPL Customers due to be restored by 12 am**
*Roadways should be re-opened by approximately 12 am (exception: Village Road from Old Trenton Road to South Lane to remain closed until approx. morning rush hour–plan accordingly). *No residences sustained structural damage. *Approximately (100) properties affected with damage of some sort from debris and/or fallen trees/branches. *No injuries were reported to any persons.
Chief Garofalo & Chief Lynch wanted to express their gratitude to the following who answered the call for action during this event:
WWPD Communications Center, Command Staff, Patrol Division, Drone Unit, Detective Bureau, & Traffic Unit WW Division of Fire & Emergency Services Stations 43/44 & Fire Police JCPL & PSEG WW Dept. of Public Works WW Construction Office American Red Cross The Media Community at Large
From Lawrence Township Police, Captain Joseph Lech IV:
At approximately 3:45 pm on February 21, 2023, Lawrence Township, located in Mercer County New Jersey, experienced a severe weather event through the center part of the Township. The areas affected are located along the Route 1 corridor. Hail, and high winds, caused extensive damage to the condominium complex of Lawrence Square Village, commercial buildings, and several vehicles.
The Lawrence Police Department responded to the events with the Lawrence Township Fire Departments and Emergency Services.
Trees were uprooted and knocked over. Utility lines were brought down, causing the closure of Route 1 in both directions, from Interstate 295 to Bakers Basin Road. Downed trees also caused the closure of Quakerbridge Road, in both directions. Approximately 60 residents have been displaced. The Red Cross is on scene as well as Volunteers of America, helping to find temporary housing for the displaced residents.
Police Departments and Fire Departments from surrounding agencies within Mercer County responded and assisted with the road closures and scene safety. The extent of the damage and any hazards will be better assessed in the daylight hours. Residents are reminded to use extreme caution and stay away from any downed wires. Motorists are asked to avoid the area of Quakerbridge Road until the hazards can be addressed. No injuries were reported as a result of the storm damage.
The National Weather Service has been contacted. They are aware of a weather event that entered the Lawrence Township area and they are indicating that it was a possible tornado.
A better assessment may be done during daylight hours, to better define the event.
Route 1 has been opened to traffic in both directions. Quakerbridge Road remains closed in both directions due to the trees across the road.
Red Cross and Volunteers of America are on scene and providing assistance for displaced residents. Any resident seeking assistance should contact the Lawrence Police or 1-800 Red Cross.
Mercer County Park Commission:
A tornado touched down in the area of Village Road and Quakerbridge Road around 4 pm today. As seen in photos, it appears to have caused significant damage to homes in the area and to Mercer Oaks West golf course. Thankfully, there were no injuries to golfers or Park Commission staff, additionally there was no damage to buildings. We did however lose many trees primarily on the West course, and as many as 100 trees were downed by this storm.
Our tree crew will begin cleanup in the morning. For tomorrow, Mercer Oaks East course will be open for play, the West course will be closed and remain closed until the cleanup is complete. We expect that will take the remainder of the week and possibly into next week. Detailed information on course closings will be posted on our golf and county website.
We are getting reports from around the county of wind-related damage, downed trees and building damage. Our Mercer County road crews are en route to assist in local clean-ups, and I ask you to please stay off the roadways if possible. Attached is video of damage at Mercer Oaks golf course in West Windsor where thankfully, no one was injured. — Brian M. Hughes, County Executive
*Updates to come as available.
National Weather Service issued a Tornado Warning for the area at the time of the damage. National Weather Service Graphic
Screen grab of the Radar Now application showing the National Weather Service Tornado Warning Box at the time of the storm damage.
Here is a map highlighting where survey crews are expected to survey tomorrow. Details, determination, and any potential damage ratings will be updated late tomorrow via social media and the Public Information Statement on our website as more information becomes available.
Here is a map highlighting where survey crews are expected to survey tomorrow. Details, determination, and any potential damage ratings will be updated late tomorrow via social media and the Public Information Statement on our website as more information becomes available. #NJwxpic.twitter.com/UzIl8OeDsn
The blue line represents the path of destruction from this weather event. From reporters on the ground the destruction starts near Lawrenc Square Village, goes though West Windsor and terminates at the East Windsor/Robbinsville border. Google Maps Image
Tornado Warning including Hamilton Square NJ, Twin Rivers NJ and Hightstown NJ until 4:15 PM EST pic.twitter.com/BjQg1UYXzs
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–West Windsor Police report that on January 4, 2023 at 5:36 p.m. Patrol & Traffic Units responded to the Valero (Princeton Hightstown Road/Southfield Road) on a report of an active physical altercation. K9 Officer Pollini arrived at the scene where all parties were separated and the following was determined: a male, identified as Kishan Patel, of East Windsor, NJ, had stopped with a friend to buy gasoline for his vehicle. A dispute started with the attendant when Patel felt he had been incorrectly provided $1 less of gasoline than he paid for and that the attendant owed him $1. The dispute began as verbal and escalated when Patel exited his vehicle and punched the victim twice in the face causing minor injuries. Patel was determined to have brandished a folding knife during the encounter. The knife was located at the scene by Traffic Officer McQuade in nearby empty garbage can.
West Windsor Division of Fire & Emergency Services arrived at the scene to attend to the victim who sustained cuts to his forehead and nose area. The victim declined to be transported to a hospital by WWDFES.
Patel was placed under arrest for Aggravated Assault, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, and Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose. Patel was transported to WWPD Headquarters for processing and released pending a future Mercer County Superior Court Date.
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–West Windsor Police say that on December 25, 2022 at 5:23 p.m., Patrol Units responded to the area of 3466 US Route 1 North (an unoccupied former car dealership) on multiple reports of a possible deceased person. Upon Patrol’s arrival, they located an unknown white female believed to be possibly in her 40’s lying deceased in the shoulder of US Route 1 North.
The WWPD Detective Bureau and Administration arrived at the scene thereafter. The WWPD Detective Bureau took over the investigation in conjunction with members of the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Homicide Task Force (HTF). The Middlesex Regional Medical Examiner’s Office removed the deceased female.
The victim has been identified as Stephanie A. Carmody of the Trenton, NJ area. The Manner and Cause of Death are still being determined at this time. Anyone with any pertinent information can contact Det. Sgt. Jason Jones at (609) 799-1222, our Anonymous Tipline at (609) 799-0452, or email at Jjones@WestWindsorPolice.com.
Additional photos of a person of interest that were released this afternoon below:
Photos of person of interest in a Christmas death in West Windsor, NJ Anyone with any pertinent information can contact Det. Sgt. Jason Jones at (609) 799-1222, our Anonymous Tipline at (609) 799-0452, or email at Jjones@WestWindsorPolice.com.
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–On December 29, 2022, at approximately 9:30 a.m., on-duty personnel responded to Village Grande at Bear Creek for an animal in distress
While en route, units were made aware that a dog was stuck in thin ice on the Bear Creek, a short distance from the roadway. Before calling 9-1-1 for assistance, the dog’s owner attempted to reach the dog but was unable.
Once on scene, Firefighter Oravsky donned proper PPE and entered the water. Firefighter Oravsky was able to grasp the pup and return to the bank to pass him over to Firefighters Vandegrift and Moore
Upon exiting the water, the dog was ushered into an area to warm up while the owner arranged transport to an area veterinary hospital for evaluation.
Please stay off the ice. The thickness of ice is unpredictable and unsafe. If you see a person or an animal in distress on the ice, do not try to rescue them. Call 9-1-1 while maintaining a visual on them until help arrives, and you can point them out to the responder.
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office and the West Windsor Police Department are seeking information about a “person of interest” in a death investigation on Christmas, December 25, 2022 on the side of Route 1 in West Windsor.
On December 25, 2022 at 5:23 p.m., Patrol Units responded to the area of 3466 US Route 1 North (an unoccupied former car dealership) on multiple reports of a possible deceased person. Upon Patrol’s arrival, they located an unknown white female who was later identified as Stephanie A. Carmody lying deceased in the shoulder of US Route 1 North.
The WWPD Detective Bureau and Administration arrived at the scene thereafter. The WWPD Detective Bureau took over the investigation in conjunction with members of the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Homicide Task Force (HTF). The Middlesex Regional Medical Examiner’s Office removed the deceased female.
The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office and the West Windsor Police Department have released this image of a “Person of Interest” surrounding the death of a woman found on the side of Route 1 on Christmas. Anyone with any pertinent information can contact Det. Sgt. Jason Jones at (609) 799-1222, our Anonymous Tipline at (609) 799-0452, or email at Jjones@WestWindsorPolice.com.
The victim has been identified as Stephanie A. Carmody of the Trenton, NJ area.
Photos from the scene in West Windsor on Christmas.
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–West Windsor Police say that on December 25, 2022 at 5:23 p.m., Patrol Units responded to the area of 3466 US Route 1 North (an unoccupied former car dealership) on multiple reports of a possible deceased person. Upon Patrol’s arrival, they located an unknown white female believed to be possibly in her 40’s lying deceased in the shoulder of US Route 1 North.
The WWPD Detective Bureau and Administration arrived at the scene thereafter. The WWPD Detective Bureau took over the investigation in conjunction with members of the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Homicide Task Force (HTF). The Middlesex Regional Medical Examiner’s Office removed the deceased female.
The victim has been identified as Stephanie A. Carmody. The Manner and Cause of Death are still being determined at this time. Anyone with any pertinent information can contact Det. Sgt. Jason Jones at (609) 799-1222, our Anonymous Tipline at (609) 799-0452, or email at Jjones@WestWindsorPolice.com.
Stephanie A. Carmody was found dead on Christmas on the side of Route 1 in West Windsor. The Manner and Cause of Death are still being determined at this time. Anyone with information is asked to contact the police.
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–West Windsor Police reported that on December 27, 2022, at 7:10 p.m., a serious motor vehicle collision was reported to the West Windsor Police Department Communications Center involving a single car into tree. Initial reports were that the driver was injured, and the car was on fire. The West Windsor Division of Fire & Emergency Services (WWDFES), West Windsor Fire Company Station #43, West Windsor Police Department Patrol & Traffic Units all responded to the scene. The West Windsor Division of Fire and Emergency Services and West Windsor Fire Company Station #43 extinguished the fire.
The following was initially determined; a 2011 Honda Accord had been traveling east on South Mill Road just prior to a curved section for the intersection of New Edinburg Road. The Honda crossed the center line, left the road to the left, crossed over New Edinburg Road, and crashed into a white pine tree. A Good Samaritan/Pedestrian stopped and removed the driver from the vehicle, which proceeded to catch fire. The driver (and sole occupant of the Honda) sustained serious, non-life threatening injuries. It was determined that the driver was Driving While Intoxicated. The driver was transported to Capital Health Regional Trauma Center–Trenton.
The crash is still under investigation. If anyone has any pertinent information, please contact the West Windsor Police Department’s Traffic Officer E. McQuade at (609) 799-1222 or email McQuade@WestWindsorPolice.com. The roadway was closed for approximately (2.5) hours.
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–West Windsor Police reported that on December 25, 2022 at 5:23 p.m., West Windsor Patrol Units responded to the area of 3466 US Route 1 North (an unoccupied former car dealership) on multiple reports of a possible deceased person. Upon Patrol’s arrival, they located an unknown white female believed to be possibly in her 40’s lying deceased in the shoulder of US Route 1 North.
The West Windsor Police Department Detective Bureau and Administration arrived at the scene thereafter. The West Windsor Police Department Detective Bureau took over the investigation in conjunction with members of the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Homicide Task Force. The Middlesex Regional Medical Examiner’s Office removed the deceased female.
The Manner and Cause of Death are still being determined. No identity will be released at this time pending next of kin notification and the ongoing investigation. The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide Task Force and the WWPD are jointly continuing the investigation. Anyone with information can contact the Mercer County Homicide Task Force at (609) 989-6406 or mchtftips@mercercounty.org in addition Det. Abade at (609) 799-1222, our Anonymous Tipline at (609) 799-0452, or email at Abade@WestWindsorPolice.com.
Others responding were, West Windsor Township Division of Fire & Emergency Services, Captial Health Paramedics, Princeton Junction Fire Company.
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–Christmas evening, December 25, 2022, around 5:30 p.m. West Windsor Police responded to the area of 3466 north bound near an unoccupied auto dealership for an unknown person down on the side of the highway. The area of Route 1 where the person was found is north of Quakerbridge Road and south of Meadow Road and across from Buffalo Wild Wings. Upon arrival of police and EMS it was determined that the person was deceased. It was reported that detectives from West Windsor and the Mercer County Homicide Task Force responded to the scene for the investigation. Princeton Junction Fire Company responded to assist police with lighting of the scene for the investigation. It is unclear at this time exactly what has caused the death. The Middlesex County Medical Examiner was also on scene. No official information has been released about the death and the story will be updated as information becomes available.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri reported today this his Cyber Crimes Unit is investigating recent telephone scams where callers spoof the non-emergency telephone numbers for various police departments within Mercer County in an attempt to scam residents. The scammers falsely claim the resident has a warrant for their arrest. As a reminder, law enforcement will never ask for payment of any type over the phone nor will they ask for personal identifying information that could be used for fraudulent purposes. Law enforcement and government agencies will also never ask you to pay by unusual methods, such as gift cards, wire transfers or cryptocurrency.
Scammers research potential victims on the internet and social media. Then they call and deceive their victims into thinking the callers are law enforcement officers, prosecutors or police employees. Scammers may spoof a law enforcement telephone number, falsely showing on the victim’s caller ID. They threaten victims with arrest for outstanding warrants or other legal issues.
Should you receive a call from a police department within Mercer County or the Prosecutor’s Office, please confirm who you are speaking with. If you believe you received a scam telephone call, hang up and call the number back. If the call is legitimate, you’ll be connected with a police dispatcher or receptionist who can verify the caller’s identity. Report any scam calls to your local law enforcement agency. Please share this message with your family and friends, especially the elderly, to help prevent phone scams.
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–West Windsor Police actively investigating a Harassment and Bias Intimidation incident that happened yesterday around 1:00 p.m. yesterday, December 10, 2022, on Princeton-Hightstown Road/South Mill Road.
West Windsor Police Department Communications Center detailed Patrol Officer Pollini & Traffic Officer Brown to investigate a Harassment and Bias Intimidation Incident where the following was reported; the victim was teaching her daughter to drive on South Mill Road at the traffic signal for Princeton-Hightstown Road. Another vehicle, described as a Subaru Forester blue or green in color (Christmas tree on the roof) with unknown NJ license plates, was directly behind their vehicle. The inexperienced driver, took slightly longer to accelerate through the intersection. The driver of the Subaru, a white male with bald head, began to blare his vehicle’s horn. The Subaru changed into the right lane of Princeton-Hightstown Road while the victim’s vehicle remained in the left lane. As the Subaru passed the victim, the male prominently displayed his middle finger at the victim. The victim exchanged the greeting. As they both came to a stop, side by side, at the intersection of Clarksville Road, the victim rolled down her window and asked for the white male’s patience with them as there was a new driver learning. The white male responded with expletives and a racial slur directed at the victim. The white male then spit at the victim prior to driving west bound on Princeton-Hightstown Road.
The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office–Bias Crimes was notified of the incident and Det. Robles was assigned as the Lead Detective. The WWPD is still actively investigating and would like to identify the W/M. We are asking for any assistance from the community who may have seen this incident or may know who the W/M is from the description provided. Please contact Det. Robles at (609) 799-1222, our Anonymous Tipline at (609) 799-0452, or email Robles@WestWindsorPolice.com.
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–West Windsor Police and West Windsor Emergency Services were dispatched to Old Trenton Road Near Dorchester Drive for a crash. Upon arrival it was determined that there were at least four injuries and extra ambulances were called from East Windsor and Cranbury and a paramedic unit from Captial Health. The injured were transported to local hospitals for treatment. The West Windsor Police Department is investigating the crash. No additional details are available at this time.
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–Around 2:00 p.m. a tractor trailer crashed into the rear of a tow truck in the center lane of Route 1 near Carnegie Center. West Windor Police and West Windsor Fire & Emergency Services responded to the scene.
When West Windsor Fire & Emergency Services arrived, it appeared that a Tractor Trailer rear-ended a flatbed tow truck in the middle lane. During the collision, the Tractor Trailer Jack-knifed, and together the vehicles slid toward the shoulder of the roadway.
During the collision, the motor of the tractor-trailer sheered off its mounts. Due to the motor being damaged, a significant amount of motor oil discharged into the highway.
The Incident Commander requested a sand truck from the New Jersey Department of Transportation to the scene to apply sand to the roadway. This response was ideal as there was no immediate risk of rain and the oil spanned a considerable distance.
Recovery operators with Eddie’s towing were able to disentangle the two vehicles. The tractor-trailer was towed due to significant damage to the motor.
Once removed, members assessed the nearby storm drains, water runoffs, debris removal, and documentation.
West Windsor Police closed traffic to one lane of the highway until about 3:30 p.m. West Windsor Police Department is investigating.
WEST WINDSOR PD: TRAFFIC ADVISORY – avoid Route 1 North @ Carnegie Center Blvd due to motor vehicle accident. Traffic flow down to one Northbound lane.
WEST WINDSOR PD: TRAFFIC ADVISORY – All Route 1 Northbound lanes @ Carnegie Center Blvd have been re-opened. Traffic flow is normal. – Dispatcher 766
