ICE Agent Struck by Vehicle During Stafford Township, NJ, Incident
UPDATE — 4 PM Monday: Stafford Township Police have released more information on Monday morning's incident involving an ICE agent:
[T]he Stafford Township Police Department received an emergency call for a report of shots fired and an injured officer on Route 72 near Mermaid Drive. Stafford Township Police Officers responded immediately to find an injured I.C.E. agent who officers then provided first aid to and facilitated his transport for further treatment. Officers also attempted to locate the suspect who had fled the scene before their arrival. The scene was secured by responding officers and the Federal Bureau of Investigation continued the investigation. Stafford Township Police Department will follow through with any local charges once the investigation is complete.
Route 72 is now open in both directions and there continues to be no known safety concerns to the public.
Our original report continues below.
Stafford Township, N.J. — Published reports say an ICE agent is recovering after being struck by a van in southern Ocean County Monday morning.
ICE Operation Leads to Incident on Route 72
The Stafford Township Police Department said the incident happened around 9:30 in the area of Route 72 and Mermaid Drive.
According to the department, ICE was attempting to apprehend a suspect when that person fled from the scene in a vehicle, striking the agent. The agent discharged his firearm at the vehicle, reportedly striking it. The suspect fled the scene and has not been located at this time.
The agent reportedly sustained unknown injuries and it is unknown if the suspect was injured. Police say there is no reason to believe there is any concern for the public's safety.
Authorities have not released descriptions of the suspect nor the vehicle.
Video from WCAU-TV
Stafford Police Clarify Their Role
Stafford Township Police pointed out that they adhere to the New Jersey Attorney General's Immigrant Trust Directive and they were not assisting in or part of the ICE operation, nor are they investigating the incident.
Avoid the Area
Please are asking those traveling to avoid Route 72 near Mermaid Drive, which is about one mile west of the Garden State Parkway, as that investigation will likely take several hours.
This is a developing story that will be updated as more information becomes available.
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Chris Coleman is a South Jersey native and has been a cornerstone of the Atlantic City radio market since 1998. He serves as Brand Manager for WPG Talk Radio 95.5 and afternoon on-air personality for Cat Country 107.3. A five-time President's Circle award winner and Townsquare Media's 2024 Content Creator of the Year, Chris covers news, events, and stories of interest across Southern New Jersey. Story tips: chris.coleman@townsquaremedia.com
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