Lakewood AlertsChesed of Lakewood is once again ensuring that residents who are homebound or unable to attend shul for medical reasons will be able to hear the Megillah this Purim.
The initiative coordinates volunteer leiners who visit individuals in their homes, making it possible for them to fulfill the mitzvah despite health or mobility limitations.
Those who are able to lein are encouraged to participate, while those who need someone to lein for them can request assistance so arrangements can be made.
Those interested in volunteering or requesting help can call or text 732-901-0482, extension 4. Additional information is available at chesedoflakewood.org.
Lakewood AlertsWe regret to inform you of the petirah of R’ Shlomo Leib Zweiback z”l, a lifelong marbitz torah who was best known for the years he spent being mechanech talmidim in Yeshiva Zichron Meir of Mountaindale.
R’ Shlomo Leib z”l is survived by his children – R’ Tzvi Meir, Mrs. Goldy Bleich, Mrs. Fraydel Abishour, Mrs. Sarah Kline, Mrs. Nechama Garfinkel, Mrs. Bashy Kolodny, and Mrs. Chana Weiland – as well as by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was predeceased by a son, R’ Avi Zweiback z”l.
The levaya is scheduled to take place at the Lakewood Chapel, 613 Ramsey Avenue, at 2 PM on Tuesday.
Baruch Dayan Ha’Emes.
Lakewood AlertsA residential fire broke out early Tuesday morning in the Roosevelt City section of Manchester Township, prompting a large multi-agency emergency response and leaving two residents temporarily displaced.
According to the Manchester Police Department, officers were dispatched at approximately 4:04 a.m. to a home at 1761 Delaware Avenue following reports of a structure fire.
When officers arrived, they observed flames and heavy smoke coming from the residence. Police quickly confirmed that all occupants had safely evacuated and that no pets were inside the home.
Multiple fire companies responded and began suppressing the blaze. Firefighters were able to bring the fire under control before it spread to neighboring homes or nearby vehicles.
Assisting at the scene were the Whiting, Manchester, Ridgeway, Joint Base, New Egypt, Bayville, Pinewald Pioneer, Cassville, and Whitesville volunteer fire departments, along with Manchester EMS, Manchester Office of Emergency Management, Berkeley EMS, and other supporting agencies.
Emergency medical personnel from Manchester Township Medical Services evaluated and treated both residents for smoke inhalation at the scene. The residents declined further medical treatment.
The cause of the fire remains undetermined. An investigation is being conducted by the Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office in coordination with the Manchester Township Police Department’s Investigations Bureau.
The American Red Cross is working with the affected family to provide temporary accommodations and essential assistance in the aftermath of the fire.
Officials said no additional injuries were reported, and the incident remains under active investigation.
Lakewood AlertsThe LSTA announced that there will not be busing on Tuesday, February 24, citing ongoing road conditions and widespread staffing shortages following last week’s storm.
In a weather update released Monday evening, the LSTA said the decision was made after evaluating the continued impact of the storm on surrounding communities and the availability of drivers.
The LSTA praised local officials and public works departments for their cleanup efforts, including the Lakewood Township Department of Public Works and the Lakewood Township Council, with special recognition given to Meir Lichtenstein, the township’s Office of Emergency Management and bussing liaison.
The LSTA also thanked the Jackson Township Department of Public Works and the Jackson Township Council, highlighting the efforts of Councilman Mordy Burnstein for expanding cleanup operations. Additional appreciation was extended to other partner municipalities.
“This was a once-in-a-decade event, and its impact has been significant,” the LSTA said.
According to the LSTA, approximately 450 drivers are required to operate morning routes. Nearly 95 percent of drivers live in neighboring towns, where public schools remain closed and road conditions are still difficult. As a result, many drivers are unable to report to work.
This combination of closures and travel limitations has created a substantial staffing shortage.
School administrators will continue to determine their own schedules independently. The LSTA advised families to rely on direct communication from their respective schools regarding any changes to hours or programming.
The LSTA said it is currently working with neighboring school districts, whose schedules affect driver availability, in hopes of restoring normal service by Wednesday.
LSTA thanked parents and students for their patience and cooperation as recovery efforts continue across the region.
Lakewood AlertsAs a major winter storm continues to bring heavy snow and dangerous conditions across New Jersey, New Jersey Natural Gas (NJNG) is urging residents to take immediate steps to protect their homes and families from carbon monoxide exposure and natural gas hazards.
NJNG officials say ongoing snowfall and drifting snow can block outdoor vents and bury natural gas meters and piping, creating serious safety risks. Obstructed vents can cause carbon monoxide (CO) to build up inside homes, while inaccessible meters can delay emergency response during service disruptions.
Keep Meters, Pipes, and Vents Clear
Residents are advised to regularly check their property and carefully remove snow and ice from natural gas meters, pipes, and outside vents.
NJNG recommends using a broom or gloved hands and avoiding shovels, sharp tools, or excessive force, which can damage equipment and create unsafe conditions. Meters and vents should remain visible and accessible so utility workers and first responders can reach them quickly if needed.
Homeowners should also clear vents for high-efficiency heating systems, water heaters, and clothes dryers to prevent dangerous blockages.
Carbon Monoxide Safety During the Storm
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can become deadly if it accumulates indoors. NJNG warns that blocked vents during snowstorms are a common cause of wintertime CO incidents.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning may include headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and confusion, particularly if symptoms improve after going outside.
The company urges residents to ensure carbon monoxide alarms are installed and functioning properly on every level of the home.
If a CO alarm sounds or exposure is suspected, residents should:
What to Do If You Smell Gas
NJNG is also reminding customers to remain alert for the odor of natural gas. Anyone who smells gas or suspects a leak should leave the area immediately and, from a safe location, call 911 and NJNG at 800-221-0051.
Utility officials say these precautions are especially critical while the storm is ongoing, as continued snowfall and limited visibility can quickly recreate hazardous conditions.
Residents are encouraged to check outdoor equipment periodically throughout the storm, when it is safe to do so, and to follow official guidance as crews work to maintain service and respond to emergencies.
Lakewood AlertsThe New Jersey Office of Emergency Management, operating under the New Jersey State Police, has extended the state’s mandatory travel restriction as a severe winter storm continues to impact New Jersey.
Originally set to expire earlier, the restriction — which began at 9:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 22, 2026 — will now remain in effect until 12:00 noon on Monday, February 23, 2026. Officials cited ongoing hazardous conditions, including heavy snowfall, blizzard-like visibility, and strong winds, which continue to create dangerous travel situations statewide.
Residents are being urged to avoid all non-essential travel until the order is lifted. Road crews remain deployed across the state to clear snow-covered highways and local roads and to support restoration of essential services.
Travel Restriction Details
Under the extended order:
Exemptions
The restriction does not apply to:
Officials said the measure is designed to protect public safety and ensure that emergency responders, utility crews, and road maintenance teams can operate without obstruction as they work to clear roadways and restore services.
Authorities advised residents to monitor official state communications for updates on when the restriction will be lifted.
Lakewood AlertsMessage from Lakewood Committeeman Meir Lichtenstein and Lakewood Police Captain Steve Allaire as the blizzard descends on Lakewood.
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Lakewood AlertsA 13-year-old Jackson resident suffered moderate injuries on Sunday evening after he became pinned under a vehicle in the Brookwood 1 neighborhood.
The circumstances surrounding the incident were not immediately clear, and officials have not confirmed whether the accident was weather-related.
Hatzolah paramedics transported the injured boy to Jersey Shore University Medical Center for treatment of his injuries.
Please daven for Yitzchok Zelig ben Malka for a refuah sheleima.
Lakewood AlertsAn approximately 9-year-old Jackson resident suffered moderate injuries on Sunday evening after he was struck and became pinned under a vehicle in the Brookwood 1 neighborhood.
The circumstances surrounding the incident were not immediately clear, and officials have not confirmed whether the accident was weather-related.
Hatzolah paramedics transported the injured boy to Jersey Shore University Medical Center for treatment of his injuries. He has since been released back home.
Please daven for Yitzchok Zelig ben Malka for a refuah sheleima.
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Lakewood AlertsThe Division of Roads and additional contracted crews are fully mobilized and prepared to keep Township roads as clear and safe as possible during the storm and our Police and Emergency Services stand ready to ensure rapid response times throughout the Township.
I have been in contact with Governor Sherrill’s Office this morning, and they stand ready, should we need state assistance. JCP&L has additional crews — including mutual aid from outside the immediate area — to address any potential power outages as quickly and safely as possible.
Snow is expected to begin later this afternoon, with periods of heavy snowfall that could reach 1–3 inches per hour at times. While our plows will be operating continuously along established routes, road conditions may deteriorate quickly, and it may appear that streets have not yet been serviced. Please remain patient and avoid unnecessary travel. If you experience an emergency, contact 911 so first responders can safely reach you. Streets will not be fully cleared until snowfall tapers off.
This is forecasted to be a wet, heavy snow. Please use caution while shoveling and clearing driveways, and take frequent breaks to avoid overexertion. Check in on elderly neighbors and those who may need assistance.
Let’s work together to stay safe and look out for one another during this storm.
Daniel T. Rodrick
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Lakewood AlertsAhead of the expected storm – which is expected to bring extremely heavy snowfall to the region through Monday – Lakewood Township officials issued the following advisory:
Township officials say they will provide additional updates as necessary.
Lakewood AlertsA powerful winter storm is expected to bring blizzard conditions to Lakewood and surrounding areas beginning Sunday afternoon and continuing into Monday morning, with forecasts calling for up to 30 inches of snow, according to the National Weather Service.
Additionally, wind gusts could reach up to 55 miles per hour, significantly reducing visibility and increasing the risk of drifting snow and power outages.
In response to the looming storm, Mikie Sherrill has declared a statewide State of Emergency, effective at 12:00 p.m. on Sunday.
“Beginning tomorrow and continuing into Monday, we expect to see a winter storm bring severe blizzard conditions across our state,” Sherrill said in a statement. “We are urging all New Jerseyans to use caution, stay off the roads, and follow all safety protocols during the storm.”
State officials warned that snow accumulations could exceed 10 inches across all regions, with some coastal communities facing totals as high as 24 inches. In addition to heavy snowfall, forecasters are monitoring the potential for coastal flooding in low-lying areas.
Emergency management agencies are coordinating with local and county officials to prepare road crews, utility companies, and first responders for extended operations. Residents are encouraged to secure supplies, charge electronic devices, and avoid unnecessary travel once conditions worsen.
Authorities emphasized that drivers should stay off the roads during the height of the storm unless absolutely necessary, as plowing and emergency response efforts may be hindered by whiteout conditions and icy surfaces.
Further updates are expected as the storm approaches and conditions develop. Residents are advised to monitor official alerts and local announcements for the latest information and safety guidance.
Lakewood AlertsA powerful winter storm is expected to bring blizzard conditions to Lakewood and surrounding areas beginning Sunday afternoon and continuing into Monday morning, with forecasts calling for up to 30 inches of snow, according to the National Weather Service.
Additionally, wind gusts could reach up to 55 miles per hour, significantly reducing visibility and increasing the risk of drifting snow and power outages.
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Lakewood AlertsAhead of the snowstorm, Chaveirim of Central Jersey is recruiting volunteers with SUVs who are willing and available to assist the community throughout the storm with essential transportation needs.
If you have an SUV and are able to help, please click this link to sign up.
Lakewood AlertsWith a major winter storm expected to impact our area Sunday into Monday, Hatzolah of Central Jersey is urging residents—especially seniors and those with medical needs—to take important precautions now.
Residents who rely on prescription medications are advised to refill and secure all necessary medications as soon as possible. Severe weather conditions may make travel difficult or impossible for several days, limiting access to pharmacies and medical facilities.
Hatzolah is also warning of the potential for widespread power outages during the storm. Elderly individuals and medically vulnerable residents who depend on electricity for medical equipment, heating, or other essential needs should make arrangements in advance. When possible, they are encouraged to stay with family members or friends who have reliable backup power, such as generators.
Additionally, Hatzolah is warning that this storm is expected to bring mostly wet, heavy snow, which is significantly harder to shovel and can place severe strain on the heart. Every winter, emergency responders see a rise in cardiac emergencies linked to snow shoveling. Residents—particularly older adults and those with heart conditions—are strongly urged to avoid overexertion, shovel slowly and in stages, take frequent breaks, or arrange for others to assist. If chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or unusual fatigue occurs, stop immediately and call Hatzolah.
“We strongly encourage families to check in on elderly relatives and neighbors and help them prepare,” Hatzolah said. “Taking steps now can prevent emergencies later.”
Residents are also reminded to stock up on basic necessities, remain indoors during dangerous conditions, and avoid unnecessary travel.
Hatzolah of Central Jersey remains on standby and fully prepared to respond throughout the storm. In case of emergency, residents should call Hatzolah immediately.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and look out for one another.
Lakewood AlertsIt is with deep regret that we inform you of the petirah of Rebbetzin Rochel Zuckerman a”h, the wife of Rav Aharon Zuckerman shlit”a, the rav of K’hal Zichron Pinchas.
The levaya is scheduled to take place at 9 AM Sunday morning at K’hal Zichron Pinchas, 145 Flintlock Drive in Lakewood.
Besuros Tovos.
Lakewood AlertsThe Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office announced that it will join local law enforcement agencies in a statewide, high-visibility traffic enforcement initiative aimed at reducing roadway fatalities across New Jersey.
Ocean County Prosecutor Brad Billhimer said the county will once again participate in the “Goal: Zero” campaign, a coordinated effort focused on addressing the rise in traffic-related deaths. As of February 19, 57 people have died on New Jersey roadways this year, including seven fatalities in Ocean County.
The enforcement detail for Ocean County is scheduled for Monday from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and will involve increased patrols and targeted monitoring of high-risk driving behaviors.
“Goal: Zero is not a slogan — it is a commitment,” Billhimer said in a statement. “Every fatal crash is preventable, and law enforcement will use every tool at its disposal to hold careless and reckless drivers accountable. Our mission is simple: zero deaths on Ocean County roadways.”
This month’s initiative is dedicated to the 10-year remembrance of Tim O’Donnell and his five-year-old daughter, Bridget, who were killed in a crash on February 22, 2016, by an impaired driver on the New Jersey Turnpike. Following their deaths, Tim’s wife, Pam, established the Catch You Later Foundation to promote roadway safety and discourage dangerous driving.
Officials said the enforcement effort will focus on speeding, impaired driving, distracted driving, and other violations that contribute to serious crashes. Officers from multiple agencies will participate in coordinated patrols throughout the county.
The Goal: Zero campaign was launched in 2024 by Matt Menosky, a patrolman in Holmdel Township, who helped bring together 36 municipalities to target unsafe driving practices. The campaign’s bright green logo is intended to symbolize visibility and pedestrian and school safety, while a black bar represents mourning for lives lost in traffic crashes.
Lakewood AlertsA powerful winter storm is expected to bring blizzard conditions to Lakewood and surrounding areas beginning Sunday afternoon and continuing into Monday morning, with forecasts calling for up to two feet of snow, according to the National Weather Service.
Additionally, wind gusts could reach up to 55 miles per hour, significantly reducing visibility and increasing the risk of drifting snow and power outages.
In response to the looming storm, Mikie Sherrill has declared a statewide State of Emergency, effective at 12:00 p.m. on Sunday.
“Beginning tomorrow and continuing into Monday, we expect to see a winter storm bring severe blizzard conditions across our state,” Sherrill said in a statement. “We are urging all New Jerseyans to use caution, stay off the roads, and follow all safety protocols during the storm.”
State officials warned that snow accumulations could exceed 10 inches across all regions, with some coastal communities facing totals as high as 24 inches. In addition to heavy snowfall, forecasters are monitoring the potential for coastal flooding in low-lying areas.
Emergency management agencies are coordinating with local and county officials to prepare road crews, utility companies, and first responders for extended operations. Residents are encouraged to secure supplies, charge electronic devices, and avoid unnecessary travel once conditions worsen.
Authorities emphasized that drivers should stay off the roads during the height of the storm unless absolutely necessary, as plowing and emergency response efforts may be hindered by whiteout conditions and icy surfaces.
Further updates are expected as the storm approaches and conditions develop. Residents are advised to monitor official alerts and local announcements for the latest information and safety guidance.
Lakewood AlertsA Hatzolah member responding to an emergency was blocked by a D.A.G. bus driver who refused to pause a drop-off for a moment to allow him to pass on Kennedy Blvd. in Lakewood.
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Lakewood AlertsFollowing the dedicated efforts of several generous philanthropists and devoted askonim, Bnos Penina has announced that classes will resume Friday on a regular schedule.
On Tuesday, the school had sent letters to its parent body stating that it was suspending classes beginning Thursday due to severe financial constraints.
Lakewood AlertsA 21-year-old woman from Brick has died after slipping off a hiking trail and becoming stranded in freezing conditions while climbing New York’s highest peak with her dog.
Brianna Mohr, an avid outdoor enthusiast and wildlife photographer, was hiking Mount Marcy in the Adirondack Mountains when she fell and became trapped along the mountainside last week Thursday afternoon, according to New York State Police.
Mohr called 911 around 3 p.m. while clinging to the side of the mountain, officials said. Forest rangers and state police immediately launched a large-scale search, deploying snowmobiles and a helicopter in an effort to locate her on the 5,300-foot peak.
However, low cloud cover and poor visibility hampered aerial efforts, and rescuers were unable to find her until after 9 p.m. By the time she was located, Mohr had died from hypothermia.
Temperatures in the area that day ranged from -8 to 20 degrees, according to AccuWeather.
Her dog, who had accompanied her on the hike, was found at her side and was unharmed.
Mohr was a graduate of Brick Memorial High School’s Class of 2022. She was known among friends and family for her love of the outdoors and her passion for photography, frequently documenting trips to rugged destinations across the country.
Her social media accounts feature images from places such as Death Valley, Yellowstone, Mount Washington, Rocky Mountain National Park, Moosehead Lake, and Canyonlands National Park.
Mount Marcy, which rises to 5,343 feet, is known for rapidly changing and often dangerous winter conditions.
Lakewood AlertsThe announcement that Bnos Penina will no longer be able to continue operating should not be treated as just another unfortunate story. It should be understood for what it really is: a warning.
A school does not close in the middle of the year on a whim. Administrators do not send children home because of a temporary setback or a minor shortfall. That kind of decision comes only after months or years of scrambling, cutting, pleading, negotiating, and hoping that something will turn around. It comes after every possible avenue has been explored and every option has been exhausted. When a school reaches that point, it is not because leadership gave up. It is because there was nothing left to hold on to.
The letter from the school made it painfully clear that tuition commitments were not met. Promised support did not materialize, operating costs rose, and the landlord withdrew the building. And despite sustained efforts to secure funding, the numbers simply did not work. That reality cuts directly against a narrative that has circulated in some circles for years — that school administrators are somehow living comfortably at the expense of parents, that they are inefficient, wasteful, or motivated by personal gain.
If that were true, this school would not be closing. No administrator who is “rolling in dough” shuts down in February. Do we really believe that people who have poured their hearts into building a school would choose to dismantle it if the problem were simply their personal spending habits and lifestyles? Of course not. This closure exposes how far removed that stereotype is from reality.
This brings us to a difficult but necessary conversation about tuition. Too often, tuition is treated as something flexible, negotiable, or optional. It becomes a bill that can be delayed, reduced, or ignored when things get tight. Families may feel overwhelmed, and that is understandable, but when tuition is not paid, the school does not simply absorb the loss. It accumulates month after month – until the system breaks completely.
Our community is generous, sometimes extraordinarily so. We support an endless stream of campaigns on behalf of countless worthy causes. But this story forces us to ask whether we are giving in the right order. Too often, we fund what is exciting, visible, or emotionally satisfying, while the institutions that educate our children are barely staying afloat.
Chinuch cannot be just another line item on the list of causes. It is the list.
Before we donate to projects that make us feel good, before we fund prestige initiatives, and certainly before we spend freely on luxuries, vacations, or the latest trends, we have to ask whether our schools are financially secure. If our children’s classrooms are operating on financial fumes, then something is deeply wrong with our priorities.
This is not about shaming families who are struggling. Many are. The cost of living is real, and tuition is heavy. It is about collective responsibility. If parents cannot carry the full burden, the community must help carry it. If donors are giving generously elsewhere, they must first ensure that chinuch is protected.
Bnos Penina’s situation is not an isolated failure. It is a symptom. It reflects a broader problem of misplaced priorities and delayed responsibility.
If we truly believe that chinuch is our future, then that belief has to be reflected in how we spend, how we give, and how seriously we take our obligations.
Signed,
A Lakewood Resident
The views expressed in this letter are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Lakewood Alerts. Have an opinion you would like to share? Send it to us for review.
Lakewood AlertsThe Lakewood Police Department has filed criminal charges in connection with a cargo theft investigation involving merchandise valued at approximately $65,000.
Police said the investigation began on Feb. 4, when officers responded to a report of a commercial shipment that was scheduled for delivery to Lakewood but never arrived. According to authorities, the victim reported that the merchandise had been picked up out of state by a contracted driver and failed to reach its destination.
Detectives reviewed shipping documentation, electronic tracking data, and worked with out-of-state law enforcement agencies as part of the investigation. Police said the inquiry determined that the individual assigned to transport the shipment did not complete the delivery.
As a result, Kamal Singh, 24, of Fresno, California, has been charged with two counts of theft by deception under state statute 2C:20-4. The charges relate to the alleged improper receipt of transportation payment and the value of the missing merchandise.
Authorities said Singh has been entered into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database. The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with further information related to the case is asked to contact Detective Ganley of the Lakewood Police Department Detective Bureau.
Lakewood AlertsMore than 1,100 dead or sick wild birds were reported across New Jersey over a three-day period last weekend, raising renewed concerns about the spread of bird flu and its impact on wildlife.
The reports were submitted to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection between Saturday, Feb. 14, and Monday, Feb. 16. Officials said the vast majority of cases involved Canada geese, with a smaller number of other species, including brant along the coast.
The NJDEP’s New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife is coordinating with local officials to safely collect and dispose of bird carcasses at designated landfills throughout the state.
State officials said testing for avian influenza is generally conducted only when the virus has not previously been detected in a county or when special circumstances exist, such as deaths near poultry facilities. Earlier this month, testing on brant returned negative results, suggesting that some recent deaths may be linked to freezing temperatures and limited food supplies.
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, known as H5N1, continues to circulate nationwide, affecting both wild and domestic birds. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the virus has caused outbreaks in poultry and dairy cattle and has been linked to two human deaths in the United States since 2024. Federal officials say the current risk to the general public remains low.
New Jersey has experienced a resurgence of bird deaths linked to avian influenza since November, with officials believing the virus is now affecting wild birds in all counties. Species impacted include waterfowl, birds of prey, and scavenger birds.
To improve monitoring efforts, the NJDEP has launched a new Wild Bird Disease Reporting Form. Residents are encouraged to report sightings of sick or dead birds, especially when five or more are found in one area, as officials continue to track the spread of the virus and assess potential risks.
Lakewood AlertsBnos Penina, a girls school in Lakewood, has informed parents that it will no longer be able to operate in its current location after Wednesday, February 18, and instructed families not to send students beginning Thursday, February 19.
According to the letter, administrators said the school has struggled to remain financially viable after parents’ commitments to provide additional support and maintain current tuition payments were not fully met.
“Had tuition obligations been maintained as agreed, we would not be in this position today,” the administration wrote.
The administration said the challenges were compounded by prolonged periods of sub-freezing temperatures earlier this winter, which increased operating and maintenance costs.
The school also disclosed that its landlord had notified administrators that the building would no longer be available for use after this week, leaving the school without a location to continue classes.
Despite efforts over recent months to secure funding and explore alternative solutions, the administration said it was unable to find a sustainable path forward.
“After much effort, many conversations, and every possible attempt to find a sustainable path forward, we have reached the painful conclusion that we will not be able to continue,” the letter stated.
School leaders said the decision followed consultation with Torah authorities and was made after extensive deliberation.
“It is our sincere hope that our wonderful and loyal parents will step forward in a meaningful and immediate way to make continuation possible,” the administration wrote.
Lakewood AlertsBnos Penina, a girls school in Lakewood, has informed parents that it will no longer be able to operate in its current location after Wednesday, February 18, and instructed families not to send students beginning Thursday, February 19.
According to the letter, administrators said the school has struggled to remain financially viable after parents’ commitments to provide additional support and maintain current tuition payments were not fully met.
“Had tuition obligations been maintained as agreed, we would not be in this position today,” the administration wrote.
The administration said the challenges were compounded by prolonged periods of sub-freezing temperatures earlier this winter, which increased operating and maintenance costs.
The school also disclosed that its landlord had notified administrators that the building would no longer be available for use after this week, leaving the school without a location to continue classes.
Despite efforts over recent months to secure funding and explore alternative solutions, the administration said it was unable to find a sustainable path forward.
“After much effort, many conversations, and every possible attempt to find a sustainable path forward, we have reached the painful conclusion that we will not be able to continue,” the letter stated.
School leaders said the decision followed consultation with Torah authorities and was made after extensive deliberation.
“It is our sincere hope that our wonderful and loyal parents will step forward in a meaningful and immediate way to make continuation possible,” the administration wrote.
Lakewood AlertsLakewood Township officials on Tuesday reflected on the recent winter storm, describing it as one of the most complex weather events in recent decades and crediting the coordinated response of the Lakewood Department of Public Works for limiting disruptions to daily life.
“This has been the most challenging storm I have ever dealt with,” said Ray Coles, who has served on the Township Committee for more than 25 years.
The storm produced an official snowfall total of 10.3 inches, which officials noted was significant but not unprecedented. Challenges intensified, however, when the snowfall was followed by sleet and freezing rain, and then by more than two weeks of sustained sub-freezing temperatures. After roads were largely cleared, a layer of hardened ice, estimated at nearly two inches in depth, formed on roadways and sidewalks throughout town.
Despite these conditions, township leaders said municipal operations returned close to normal within several days of the storm’s onset. Trash and recycling collection was restored within a week.
Officials credited DPW Director Phil Roux and the department’s 182 employees, along with contracted crews, for managing the response before, during, and after the storm. Planning efforts included coordination among the Township Committee, Township Manager Pat Donnelly, emergency services, and volunteer agencies.
Preparations included pre-treating roads ahead of the storm and maintaining continuous snow removal operations as conditions evolved. At peak periods, as many as 112 snow-clearing vehicles were deployed simultaneously, with crews working 12-hour shifts.
According to township officials, more than 11,000 tons of snow—approximately 22 million pounds—were removed from roadways and transported to ShoreTown Ballpark for disposal. Crews continued clearing operations for weeks, addressing both main roads and residential areas.
The response also required significant material resources. Officials reported that approximately 2,000 tons of salt and 2,000 gallons of calcium chloride were used to improve ice-melting effectiveness during periods of extreme cold.
In areas inaccessible to standard plows, including locations blocked by parked vehicles or curbside trash containers, front-end loaders were deployed to remove snow and ice.
Township leaders said they are evaluating additional specialized equipment to improve access in future storms.
Mayor Coles noted that the DPW has expanded its operational capacity in recent years and now functions on a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week basis throughout the year. He described this approach as essential for maintaining services in a growing and active community.
“Our guiding philosophy is that Lakewood is the ‘city that never sleeps,’” Coles said. “Our government must be prepared to keep the township running, even under complex circumstances.”
Township officials said they will continue reviewing the response to identify improvements for future severe weather events.
Lakewood AlertsThe Jackson Township Council will host a Community Infrastructure Roundtable on Tuesday night to discuss ongoing and future infrastructure projects and gather input from residents. The meeting will be held at Town Hall, 95 West Veterans Highway, from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Discussion topics will include roadway conditions, stormwater management, sidewalk installation, pedestrian connectivity, preservation of green space, and responsible development.
Officials said the goal is to better understand how these issues affect residents and to identify potential solutions.
Mayor Jennifer Kuhn and Township Engineer Charles Cunliffe are expected to attend and answer questions related to planning and engineering. Council members will participate on a rotating basis to comply with state quorum requirements.
Council President Burnstein said resident feedback is essential when addressing growth and infrastructure challenges.
“Residents’ input is vital in these areas since growth and infrastructure do have a bearing on them directly every day,” Burnstein said, adding that the discussions help guide future projects and priorities.
Township officials encouraged residents to attend and participate as part of the council’s ongoing effort to promote transparency and public engagement.
Lakewood AlertsFor decades, regulations required citizens of Israel – including those who also held another nationality – to use an Israeli passport when entering or leaving the country.
When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted government services worldwide, passport offices and Israeli missions abroad operated at limited capacity or were closed altogether. This created significant challenges for many citizens who were unable to obtain or renew Israeli travel documents. In response, the Interior Ministry introduced a temporary policy allowing dual citizens to travel using their non-Israeli passports. Since then, the arrangement has been renewed repeatedly due to ongoing demand and practical need, most recently in December 2025.
Chaim V’Chessed has actively lobbied on behalf of the community to help ensure the continuation of this important exception.
The Interior Ministry has now announced that this accommodation will remain in place through September 30, 2026. Dual citizens will therefore continue to be permitted to enter and depart Israel using a valid foreign passport during this period.
Chaim V’Chessed will continue to share updates with the community on travel rules, requirements, and any changes as they occur.
Lakewood AlertsHatzoloh and additional emergency personnel responded on Tuesday morning to a motor vehicle accident involving an overturned vehicle at the intersection of Hope Chapel Road and Linda Drive in Jackson.
Injuries have been reported.
Authorities are on scene investigating the cause of the crash.
Lakewood AlertsLakewood Shomrim released footage Monday from an early-morning break-in at Qualicare Oil & Lube in Lakewood. Its members tracked the suspect until police arrived and placed the thief under arrest.
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Lakewood AlertsA vehicle fire broke out in a home’s driveway on MLK Drive in Lakewood on Monday afternoon.
The Lakewood Fire Department arrived quickly and extinguished the blaze, preventing damage beyond the vehicle itself.
No injuries were reported.
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Lakewood AlertsAgudath Israel of America’s New Jersey office welcomes the expansion of a state safety initiative that will bring free life-saving equipment and training to religious schools across the state.
The New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness (NJOHSP) announced that its Bleeding Control Kit Initiative for Houses of worship has been expanded to include eligible religious schools statewide.
Launched in March 2024 for houses of worship only, NJOHSP’s Bleeding Control Kit Initiative provides fully grant-funded bleeding control kits and training at no cost, in an effort to strengthen preparedness and life-saving readiness across the state’s faith-based communities. The kits are designed to help save lives during the critical minutes before paramedics and police arrive at an emergency. They contain supplies to control serious bleeding from traumatic injuries, including those that might occur during an active shooter situation.
“Expanding access to bleeding control kits and training to religious schools is an important step in strengthening school safety and emergency preparedness across our communities,” Shlomo Schorr, Director of Legislative Affairs for Agudath Israel of America’s New Jersey office, said in a statement. “We commend NJOHSP for working proactively with faith-based institutions to ensure that schools have the tools and training necessary to respond in the critical moments before first responders arrive.
Eligible religious schools can receive kits and request in-person training by completing NJOHSP’s Houses of Worship Bleeding Control Kit Distribution Survey here.
Lakewood AlertsTwo people were killed early Sunday after an SUV left the roadway, struck a tree, and caught fire in Jackson, according to local police.
The crash occurred shortly after midnight on Hyson Road, said Edward Travisano, a lieutenant with the department. Police initially received reports of a downed transformer but soon learned that a serious motor vehicle crash had occurred.
When officers arrived at the scene, they found a black 2023 Toyota Highlander fully engulfed in flames. Travisano said officers attempted to rescue the two occupants inside the vehicle but were unable to reach them due to the fire.
Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene after the flames were extinguished. Their identities had not been confirmed as of Monday morning.
Hyson Road was closed for several hours between Cook Road and Colts Court while emergency crews and investigators worked at the site.
The crash remains under investigation by the department’s Traffic Safety Unit. Anyone who may have witnessed the incident is asked to contact Matthew Kalbach at 732-928-1111.
Lakewood AlertsMany Americans will see changes to their schedules on Monday as Presidents Day is observed nationwide, bringing closures to government offices, banks, and financial markets — while most major retailers remain open.
The federal holiday, officially known as Washington’s Birthday, honors the nation’s first president, George Washington. Over time, it has become informally known as Presidents Day, with many also viewing it as a day to recognize Abraham Lincoln, whose birthday falls on February 12.
All federal and state government offices will be closed on Monday. Most courts will also be shut, and many public schools will not hold classes, though schedules can vary by district. Residents with government business are encouraged to plan ahead, as services will resume on Tuesday.
U.S. banks are closed for the holiday, and stock markets will not operate on Monday. Both banking services and trading are scheduled to resume their regular hours on Tuesday.
Unlike many federal holidays, Presidents Day does not bring widespread retail closures. Most major stores, shopping centers, and private businesses will remain open, often featuring holiday sales and promotions. However, hours may vary by location, and customers are advised to check with individual stores before visiting.
Because local schedules and private business hours can differ, officials recommend checking online listings or calling ahead before heading out.
Lakewood AlertsThe Lakewood Police Department, in partnership with LBA and the Rothenberg Law Firm LLP, hosted a community safety event on Sunday aimed at educating families through hands-on activities and direct engagement with law enforcement.
The event brought together children, parents, and officers for a series of interactive stations focused on safety awareness and practical skills. Activities included the Rapid Response Challenge, Smart Riders Zone, Clear Vision Challenges, I Spy: Fingerprint Discovery, Spot the Suspect, and All-Star Skills.
Participants practiced quick decision-making, learned about personal and traffic safety, and explored basic investigative techniques under the guidance of police officers and volunteers.
Lakewood AlertsCHEMED Health hosted its annual Medical and Ethics Conference this weekend, drawing more than 1,000 participants for a multi-day program focused on medicine, ethics, and Halacha. Attendees included physicians, nurses, medical students, rabbanim, and healthcare administrators from across the region.
The conference opened Thursday evening with a keynote address by Rav Sholom Kamenetsky, titled “AI, Autonomy, and Halacha: How Jewish Law Approaches the Future of Decision Making.” The lecture examined emerging medical technologies and ethical decision-making through a Torah-based framework.
Over the course of the conference, participants attended 52 lectures delivered by rabbinic authorities, academic leaders, and medical professionals. Presenters included Rabbi Dr. Aaron E. Glatt, Rabbi Dr. Dovid Katz, Rabbi Dr. Akiva Tatz, Rav Professor Avrohom Steinberg, and Dr. Isaac Schechter, among others. Topics ranged from clinical practice and public health policy to end-of-life care and bioethical dilemmas.
A central feature of the program took place on Motzei Shabbos, when Rav Asher Weiss participated in a special question-and-answer session. Rav Weiss, who traveled from Israel for the event, praised CHEMED’s leadership and addressed complex medical halachic cases in discussion with attendees.
The conference concluded with a major announcement by Dr. Dovid Friedman, outlining plans for CHEMED’s next phase of development. During a presentation with the organization’s development team, Friedman unveiled plans for “The Medical Village,” a large-scale outpatient healthcare campus designed to centralize and coordinate medical services.
According to CHEMED, the Medical Village will be a fully integrated outpatient campus bringing together more than 50 medical specialties. Planned services include primary care, pediatric and adult subspecialties, dental care, behavioral health, women’s health, diagnostic radiology, an ambulatory surgery center, and a standalone emergency department. The facility is intended to allow patients to access multiple levels of care within a single coordinated system.
“For nearly two decades, CHEMED has been committed to expanding access to quality care,” Friedman said. “The Medical Village reflects our next step forward — building a future-ready healthcare model that integrates specialty medicine, academic training, and coordinated care delivery.”
In addition to clinical services, the campus will include dedicated educational and training facilities for medical students and residents.
CHEMED officials said this component is designed to strengthen academic medicine and expand professional development opportunities in the region.
Lakewood AlertsResidents of Jackson will soon be able to participate in the Township’s annual bulk waste collection program, with the first pickup scheduled to begin in March.
The bulk collection service, which is available to all households, allows residents to dispose of large items such as furniture, appliances, and other bulky waste. Collections will take place according to the Township’s published zone-based schedule.
In addition to the regular spring pickup, Mayor Jennifer Kuhn has authorized a second bulk collection for 2026. For nearly a decade, residents were limited to one annual bulk pickup. Township officials said the addition of a second collection is intended to improve convenience, reduce illegal dumping, and support cleaner neighborhoods.
The expanded service will be offered at no additional cost to residents.
Details and scheduling instructions for the second collection will be announced closer to its scheduled date. Township officials have asked residents to wait for the formal announcement before attempting to schedule appointments, as reservations for the second pickup are not yet available.
Residents are encouraged to consult the Township’s collection schedule to determine their zone’s pickup dates.
For questions regarding the March 2026 bulk collection, residents may contact the Jackson Township Department of Public Works at 732-928-1311.
Lakewood AlertsElectricity customers served by Jersey Central Power & Light will see a modest increase in supply costs beginning June 1, 2026, following the certification of New Jersey’s annual Basic Generation Service (BGS) auction by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities.
Under the newly approved rates, the average JCP&L residential customer using 650 kilowatt-hours per month is expected to see their monthly electricity supply bill rise from $135.24 to $137.47, an increase of $2.23, or about 1.6 percent. The figures reflect supply charges only and do not include delivery or other utility fees.
The 2026 auction results for JCP&L showed a slight increase compared with last year, largely driven by higher wholesale energy costs and prices in the regional capacity market operated by PJM Interconnection. Officials said the impact was moderated in part by a temporary price “collar” adopted in 2025, which placed limits on how high or low capacity prices could move.
The rate changes come as Gov. Mikie Sherrill has directed regulators to address rising utility costs. Under Executive Order No. 1, the NJBPU is required to provide Residential Universal Bill Credits to help offset supply increases starting with the June 2026 billing cycle. Initial credits are expected to be issued by July 1, 2026.
Lakewood AlertsA man charged with setting a fire outside a Toms River gym has been linked to two additional fires reported in the hours leading up to the incident, according to an affidavit filed in the case.
Joseph R. Mansueto, 38, is charged with aggravated arson and criminal mischief in connection with a fire reported outside a Planet Fitness location at the Toms River Shopping Center on Route 37, the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office said.
Authorities said the fire at the gym was reported at 3:41 a.m. Sunday and was quickly extinguished. No injuries were reported.
According to the affidavit, surveillance footage reviewed by investigators showed a person wearing a blue trench coat over a gray hoodie, along with a blue scarf, blue pants and black sneakers, walking past the gym at approximately 3:26 a.m. Two minutes later, the same individual was seen walking in the opposite direction. The fire was reported about 15 minutes later.
Detectives later determined that firefighters had responded earlier that morning to the Toms River Bus Terminal, located at 400 Highland Parkway, for a fire in a garbage can.
Surveillance footage from the bus terminal, recorded at approximately 2:40 a.m., showed a person dressed in clothing matching the description from the Planet Fitness video. According to the affidavit, the individual lit a piece of paper and placed it on top of a garbage can beneath an overhang. After pacing nearby and smoking a cigarette, the person put the lit paper into the garbage can, causing its contents to ignite.
In addition, investigators learned that Toms River Police Department and firefighters had responded Saturday evening to a report of an open burn in an alley near Jembro at the same shopping center. The affidavit states that a man at the scene identified himself as Mansueto. He was issued a warning and released.
Later, Lt. Brad Frank of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office observed a person matching the surveillance description while driving along Route 166 in Beachwood, according to the affidavit. Beachwood police made contact with the individual, who identified himself as Mansueto.
Authorities determined Mansueto had an outstanding warrant for failure to appear. He was arrested and transported to Beachwood Police headquarters. According to the affidavit, Mansueto requested an attorney and declined to answer further questions.
While Mansueto has been charged in connection with the Planet Fitness fire, no charges have been filed related to the garbage can fire at the bus terminal as of this report.
Lakewood AlertsA 35-year-old man from Toms River was hospitalized early Thursday morning following a series of incidents involving what police described as “erratic behavior” that prompted officers to hold him at gunpoint in Wall Township.
According to Wall Township Police Department, the man had experienced a medical episode that led to unusual and concerning conduct in multiple locations overnight.
Police said the incidents began around 10 p.m. Wednesday, when a resident in Wall Township reported that an unknown man had knocked on their door. The encounter was captured on a doorbell camera. Later, at approximately 12:55 a.m. Thursday, officers were called to a Wawa on Route 34 after reports of a man acting erratically inside and outside the store.
Authorities said the man was wearing a traffic safety vest and camouflage pants. His description matched that of an individual sought earlier by Neptune Township Police Department in connection with a reported possible kidnapping at knifepoint.
Wall Patrolman Clint Forgach located the man behind the Wawa building. Police said the man refused to comply with verbal commands, prompting officers to draw their weapons “for the safety of the officers and the public.”
Two additional officers arrived at the scene, and police were able to subdue and arrest the man without further incident.
Neptune police later responded, and an investigation determined that no kidnapping had occurred. Authorities concluded that the man’s actions were the result of a medical episode.
During the investigation, officers also learned that the man was wanted on a warrant issued by the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office. Police did not disclose the nature of the warrant.
Because of concerns related to his medical condition, the man was transported to a hospital for evaluation and treatment. His name was not released, and no additional charges were immediately announced.
Lakewood AlertsAssembly Democrats on Thursday advanced a package of bills aimed at reducing costs for New Jersey residents, marking their first major legislative action of the new session.
Speaking at the State House, Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin said affordability remains a central focus of the Legislature.
“For too many families, affordability is not a single issue but an ongoing daily challenge,” Coughlin said, adding that lawmakers are seeking to lower costs related to health care, utilities, and housing.
In Trenton, the Assembly Oversight Committee advanced A3877, sponsored by Coughlin, which would offer incentives to municipalities that encourage additional housing development. Supporters say the bill is intended to increase housing supply and ease pressure on prices.
The Assembly Telecommunications and Utilities Committee approved A796, sponsored by Dave Bailey Jr., which would require utilities to create special rules for large data centers to protect other customers from higher energy costs. Lawmakers also advanced A3969, sponsored by Robert Karabinchak, to expand community solar projects.
Measures addressing health insurance costs moved through the Financial Institutions and Insurance Committee. These included A434, sponsored by Michael Venezia, to protect access to maintenance medications, and A1142, sponsored by Joe Danielsen, expanding requirements for prostate cancer screenings.
The committee also advanced A2550, sponsored by Rosy Bagolie, extending dependent coverage for certain adults with disabilities, and A3242, sponsored by Dan Hutchison, requiring coverage for continuous glucose monitoring systems for individuals with glycogen storage disease.
Lakewood AlertsThe Jackson Township Council will host a Community Infrastructure Roundtable next week to discuss ongoing and future infrastructure projects and gather input from residents.
The meeting will be held at Town Hall, 95 West Veterans Highway, on Tuesday, Feb. 17, from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Township officials said the roundtable is part of a broader effort to engage residents and evaluate local infrastructure needs to guide planning and priorities.
Discussion topics will include roadway conditions, stormwater management, sidewalk installation, pedestrian connectivity, preservation of green space, and responsible development.
Officials said the goal is to better understand how these issues affect residents and to identify potential solutions.
Mayor Jennifer Kuhn and Township Engineer Charles Cunliffe are expected to attend and answer questions related to planning and engineering. Council members will participate on a rotating basis to comply with state quorum requirements.
Council President Burnstein said resident feedback is essential when addressing growth and infrastructure challenges.
“Residents’ input is vital in these areas since growth and infrastructure do have a bearing on them directly every day,” Burnstein said, adding that the discussions help guide future projects and priorities.
Township officials encouraged residents to attend and participate as part of the council’s ongoing effort to promote transparency and public engagement.
Lakewood AlertsA young child from Lakewood is in need of Tehillim and rachamei shamayim after suffering severe burns this past weekend, which has resulted in a severe infection.
The toddler, 15-month-old Leah Necha bas Sarah, suffered second-degree burns to her stomach this past Shabbos.
Hatzolah transported her to a burn center, where she was treated and released. However, the burns have since caused a serious multi-organ infection, causing the youngster to now be in the pediatric intensive care unit.
Please daven and learn in her zechus.
Lakewood AlertsA bill cutting the bureaucratic red tape preventing a school that serves children with special needs from expanding was approved by an Assembly committee on Thursday. Assemblyman Sean Kean, the bill sponsor, calls it the first step toward increasing much-needed student capacity at the School for Children with Hidden Intelligence in Lakewood.
The bill (A1620) was reintroduced this session after being pocket vetoed by Gov. Phil Murphy. It authorizes the Department of Environmental Protection to lift a conservation easement on a piece of property when it is needed to expand an existing school for children with special needs, as long as the DEP imposes a new conservation restriction on another parcel of land that is at least twice the size of the original and located within 20 miles.
“By recognizing that some students with complex medical needs struggle to thrive in typical school settings, New Jersey has to make room at specialized institutions while also considering the environmental impacts of any kind of development,” Kean (R-Monmouth) said. “This bill thoughtfully balances the increased demand for space at the School for Children with Hidden Intelligence and land conservation. More land will be protected, and more children will be helped. It is a win-win.”
The School for Children with Hidden Intelligence is a private school approved by the New Jersey Department of Education to serve students with disabilities in pre-K through 12th grade.
Lakewood AlertsMonmouth Medical Center Southern Campus, in partnership with Lev Rochel Bikur Cholim of Lakewood, is host an emergency Blood & Platelet Drive on Thursday, February 12.
The drive will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus, located at 600 River Avenue in Lakewood.
Organizers are urging community members to step forward, stressing that donations are urgently needed to help save lives.
Appointments are strongly encouraged to ensure a smooth donation process. Donors can schedule a time slot by calling Bikur Cholim at 732-905-3020 or by visiting rwjuhdonorclub.org.
Lakewood AlertsGov. Mikie Sherrill on Tuesday signed an executive order restricting the use of state property by federal immigration agents and announced new tools for residents to report interactions with Immigration and Customs Enforcement, citing concerns about civil rights and public safety.
Sherrill, joined by Acting Attorney General Jennifer Davenport and Acting Human Services Commissioner Stephen Cha, announced Executive Order No. 12 during a press conference, outlining a series of measures aimed at limiting ICE operations on state-controlled property and increasing oversight of federal enforcement activity.
Under the order, ICE agents are prohibited from entering, accessing, or using nonpublic areas of state property for immigration enforcement operations without a judicial warrant. Covered locations include residential medical facilities, child care centers, government offices, and state university dormitories.
Sherrill said the action was intended to protect residents’ constitutional rights and ensure that federal authorities operate within the law.
“I take seriously my responsibility to keep New Jersey residents safe,” Sherrill said, adding that the order was designed to prevent what she described as unlawful or harmful enforcement practices.
The governor also announced the launch of a new online reporting portal operated by the Office of the Attorney General. The portal allows residents to submit information about encounters with ICE, including photos and videos, and to report alleged misconduct.
According to state officials, the portal can be accessed at www.njoag.gov/portal
and is available in 10 languages. Submissions may be used in legal proceedings, investigations, or referrals to other agencies. Reportable incidents include allegations of excessive force, warrantless searches or arrests, racial profiling, wrongful detention, and interference with voting.
Davenport said the reporting system would help ensure accountability and maintain public trust in law enforcement.
“When federal immigration officers violate the law and sow fear in our communities, they undermine public safety,” Davenport said. She encouraged residents to share information through the portal.
In addition to the reporting tool, the administration launched a new website, nj.gov/knowyourrights, providing information about residents’ rights when interacting with federal agents. The site includes guidance and legal resources developed in partnership with the Office of New Americans and other organizations.
Cha said the “Know Your Rights” materials are available in 22 languages and are designed to provide accurate information and access to legal support for immigrants and other residents.
“The goal is to ensure people have clear, reliable guidance, regardless of where they were born or what language they speak,” Cha said.
State officials said the executive order builds on an existing directive from the Attorney General’s Office aimed at strengthening trust between local law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. That directive limits cooperation with federal immigration authorities in certain circumstances.
The announcement comes amid ongoing national debate over immigration enforcement under former President Donald Trump. Sherrill and her administration cited recent incidents and complaints involving federal agents as part of the rationale for the new measures.
In the press release announcing the order, the governor’s office referenced alleged cases of misconduct by ICE agents, including arrests of U.S. citizens and deaths connected to enforcement operations. State officials said these examples underscored the need for additional safeguards.
The executive order does not prevent ICE from conducting operations in New Jersey, but it limits the use of state facilities and requires judicial authorization for access to restricted areas. Federal agents may still carry out enforcement actions in public spaces and on private property, subject to federal law.
State officials said the reporting portal will also be used to track trends in immigration enforcement and help guide legal strategies aimed at protecting residents’ rights.
Lawmakers and advocacy groups have expressed mixed reactions to similar policies in other states, with supporters arguing they promote civil liberties and public safety, and critics saying they may interfere with federal enforcement efforts.
Lakewood AlertsNew figures from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs show that homeowners in New Jersey are once again paying the highest property taxes in the nation, with the average bill surpassing $10,000 for the second straight year.
The milestone underscores a long-running reality in the state: property taxes remain the primary way communities fund schools, municipal services and local infrastructure. Education alone accounts for about 52% of the typical tax bill, making school funding the single largest driver of costs for homeowners.
Locally, homeowners continue to feel steady upward pressure.
In Lakewood, the average 2025 property tax bill rose to $8,974, a 6.23% increase from the previous year, with average home values at $364,614.
Nearby Jackson recorded an average bill of $9,047, up 6.42%, alongside higher average property values of $652,896.
In Toms River, homeowners paid an average of $8,526, reflecting a nearly 8% jump. Manchester Township remained more affordable, with average taxes of $5,328, while Howell Township approached the $10,000 mark at $9,883.
At the top of the property tax list in New Jersey is Tavistock in Camden County, where the average property tax bill reached $38,387. The borough is home to just three residences, all surrounding a private golf course. Ownership is limited to club members, making Tavistock an ultra-exclusive outlier in both wealth and tax burden.
Millburn, in Essex County, ranked second-highest statewide, with residents paying an average of $26,292.
On the other end of the spectrum is Walpack in Sussex County, where average taxes were just $1,143. But Walpack’s unusually low figure reflects its tiny population — fewer than 10 residents — and the absence of a school district or full-time municipal staff.
Unlike many states, New Jersey relies heavily on local property taxes to finance public education and municipal operations. With limited county- or state-level relief, towns must raise revenue primarily through homeowners.
As housing values climb and school costs rise, tax bills tend to follow, regardless of residents’ income levels. Over time, this structure has pushed New Jersey to the top of national rankings for property taxes, a position it has held for years.
Lakewood AlertsMary Nelson, the new chief of the Jackson Police Department – and the first female chief in the department’s history – was sworn-in on Tuesday night during a special ceremony at the Council’s meeting.
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Lakewood AlertsAs a February 21 referendum approaches, Jackson Township Fire District #3 is working to inform residents about its coverage area and the proposed 2026 fire budget.
Jackson Township is served by three fire districts, which can cause confusion for residents about where they vote. Fire District #3 funds Fire Station #55 and covers areas including Brookwoods, Winding Ways, Westlake Golf & Country Club, and Saint Aloysius.
“If Fire Station #55 is your fire company, Fire District #3 is where you vote on Feb. 21,” said Commissioner Frank C. Hruschka.
Officials say emergency calls have increased sharply in recent years. Fire Station #55 handled 1,513 calls in 2025, a 33% rise over two years, largely due to population growth. The department operates with both paid and volunteer firefighters.
Leaders say the proposed budget is designed to maintain round-the-clock coverage while keeping costs low. Only about 7% of the township’s tax budget currently goes to the fire district.
What the 2026 Budget Includes
The proposed budget would fund:
Cost to Homeowners
The ballot question asks voters to approve $6.5 million in spending, with about $6.1 million raised through taxes. If approved, officials say the average homeowner would pay about $3.50 more per month.
“This is about the cost of a cup of coffee to keep our firefighters ready,” Hruschka said.
Voting Information
Residents can vote by mail or in person.
Vote by mail: Ballots must be postmarked by Feb. 21. Applications are available online (scroll to “vote by mail” for the ballot application)
In person: Voting will take place on Saturday, Feb. 21, from 2 to 10 p.m. at Fire Station #55, 113 N. New Prospect Road.
The extended evening hours were approved to allow residents who observe Shabbos to vote after Havdalah.
Officials say more information about the proposed budget is available on the district’s website.
“This vote affects how fire protection will be delivered in our community,” Hruschka said. “We want residents to have clear information before they decide.”
Residents are encouraged to visit www.jacksonfiredist3.org/budgetupdate/ for additional information about the proposed 2026 budget.
Lakewood AlertsMore than 100 residents were evacuated Monday afternoon from a nursing home in Little Egg Harbor Township after water damage and safety concerns rendered the building uninhabitable.
Officers from the Little Egg Harbor Township Police Department and local firefighters responded at about 12:08 p.m. to reports of flooding and a possible gas odor at Mystic Meadows Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, located at 151 Ninth Ave.
Upon arrival, first responders found water flowing from ceiling areas throughout the facility. While no natural gas leak was detected, officials said the extensive water damage, along with the loss of potable water and fire suppression systems, made the building unsafe for occupancy.
Facility administrators worked with emergency personnel and local emergency management officials – including Lakewood Shomrim, working under Cert and Ocean County OEM – to coordinate the evacuation of approximately 110 residents. The relocation effort lasted more than 12 hours, with residents transported to facilities across the state.
Police said staff and responders worked throughout the operation to ensure residents were moved safely and with dignity.
No injuries were reported, and officials did not immediately release details on the cause of the water damage.
Lakewood AlertsSeveral homes in Lakehurst were temporarily evacuated Sunday after inert World War II–era explosives were discovered in the basement of a residence, police said.
Homes within a 250-foot radius of the 500 block of Rose and Willow streets, as well as residences in the 400 and 500 blocks of Maple and Poplar streets, were evacuated shortly after noon, according to Lakehurst Police Chief Matthew Kline. The evacuation followed a report from a resident who found the items while cleaning out the basement.
The items were described as a hand grenade and an anti-tank round marked “1942 WWII,” Kline said.
The New Jersey State Police Bomb Squad, assisted by detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Arson Unit, responded to the scene and assessed the devices.
Authorities determined that the items were inert and not live ammunition. State Police confiscated both items as a precaution, Kline said.
Residents within the evacuation zone were notified of the findings, and the evacuation was lifted shortly before 1:30 p.m., police said.
Lakewood AlertsTown Hall in Toms River will be closed for at least two days following significant flooding caused by a burst pipe, Mayor Daniel T. Rodrick announced Monday night.
According to township officials, the flooding affected all three floors of the municipal building, prompting an immediate closure and the start of remediation efforts. A professional cleanup contractor has been hired to address the damage and ensure the facility is safe before it reopens to employees and the public.
While Town Hall remains closed, inspections will continue as scheduled through the Building, Zoning, Engineering, and Code Enforcement departments, officials said.
The Township Council meeting scheduled for Wednesday has been canceled due to the closure.
“We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this unexpected closure may cause,” Rodrick said in a statement. “The safety of our employees and residents is our top priority, and we appreciate the public’s patience and understanding as we address this situation.”
Township officials said additional updates on the reopening of Town Hall will be provided as more information becomes available.
Lakewood AlertsLakewood First Aid honored more than three dozen volunteers at its Annual Appreciation Dinner, recognizing members who provide around-the-clock emergency medical services on a fully volunteer, non-compensated basis.
The event was held at Yapchik Restaurant and highlighted the organization’s activity and growth over the past year. In 2025, Lakewood First Aid responded to nearly 2,000 emergency calls, supplementing the work of Lakewood EMS when needed. The organization also handles vehicle extrications and complex rescue situations and has assisted in wildfire responses and other major emergencies outside the township.
Officials in attendance included Lakewood Deputy Mayor Menashe Miller; Committeeman and Emergency Services Liaison Meir Lichtenstein; Ocean County Sheriff Michael Mastronardy; and Lakewood EMS Chief Crystal Van de Zilver. Each paid tribute to the volunteers’ service and commitment.
During the ceremony, several members received special recognition. Heshy Fisher was named “Top Responder” after answering 585 calls in 2025. Seventeen additional volunteers were recognized for responding to more than 180 calls each during the year.
LFA Medical Director Matthew Letizia sponsored additional awards in connection with the organization’s annual “Gary Letizia Memorial Blood Drive,” held in memory of his father. More than 1,800 pints of blood were collected through the drive last year.
Other honors included the “Shining Light Award” to Yitzy Locker; the “Pillar of Service Award” to outgoing president Avi Snyder for seven years of leadership; and the “Emerging Leader Award” to rookie member Uri Tesser. The “Angel in Uniform Award” was presented to Ari Goldberger, Dovy Haber, and Ephraim Heisler for their teamwork and professionalism during a recent cardiac arrest resuscitation.
LFA Captain Yiddy Karmel praised the volunteers’ dedication, saying their professionalism and commitment serve as a model for modern volunteerism.
Lichtenstein noted that emergency response requires significant personal sacrifice from both volunteers and their families, adding that the township remains committed to supporting the organization with equipment and resources.
The organization also recently launched an “Associate Volunteer” program, which provides full coverage of Lakewood EMS calls on Sundays, allowing EMS staff members to spend the day with their families.
More information about Lakewood First Aid and volunteer opportunities is available at lakewoodfirstaid.org.
Lakewood AlertsHatzolah of Central Jersey held a ribbon-cutting ceremony this week to mark the addition of a newly dedicated Shabbos vehicle to its growing operational fleet, an initiative designed to support emergency response while upholding the community’s commitment to Shemiras Shabbos at the highest level.
The Shabbos vehicle was generously sponsored by Lilac & Creme, a beloved local cheesecake company known throughout the region for its quality products and strong committment to our community . The dedication ceremony recognized Lilac & Creme’s meaningful contribution and the impact the vehicle will have on Hatzolah’s ability to serve patients quickly and responsibly around the clock.
Shabbos vehicles play a unique and essential role in HCJ’s emergency operations. When Hatzolah members respond to medical emergencies on Shabbos, their focus remains solely on delivering immediate care and safe transport when needed. After a call is completed, a Shabbos vehicle, operated by a non-Jewish driver, enables members to return home without unnecessary additional driving, helping HCJ maintain both operational readiness and a rigorous standard of Kedushas Shabbos.
“This vehicle exemplifies who we are and how we serve,” said Meilech Esterzohn, CEO of Hatzolah of Central Jersey. “Our community relies on us for rapid, professional emergency medical response, and we take that responsibility seriously every day of the week. We are equally serious about maintaining the highest standard of Shemiras Shabbos. This vehicle helps us do both, and we’re deeply grateful to Lilac & Creme for stepping forward in such a thoughtful and impactful way.”
Hatzolah of Central Jersey thanked Lilac & Creme for its generosity and partnership, and expressed appreciation to community members whose ongoing support enables HCJ to expand its lifesaving work.
Lakewood AlertsBais Medrash Govoha held a special kabolas panim Sunday evening to formally welcome its newly appointed mashgiach, Rav Reuven Hechster shlit”a.
The asifa followed the recent announcement by BMG of Rav Hechster’s appointment as mashgiach. He previously served as mashgiach of Mir Brachfeld in Modiin Illit, a position he will continue to hold alongside his new responsibilities in Lakewood.
Rav Hechster was a close talmid of the late Rav Nosson Wachtfogel zt”l, who served for decades as mashgiach of Bais Medrash Govoha and helped shape its approach to mussar and avodas Hashem.
It was agreed that Rav Hechster would divide his time between the two institutions. Under the arrangement, he will spend approximately 20 days each month in Modiin Illit and 10 days in Lakewood, traveling to the United States following his free Shabbos in Israel.
Rav Hechster was originally appointed as mashgiach of Mir Brachfeld by Rav Nosson Tzvi Finkel zt”l, strengthening his longstanding connection to the Mir derech in mussar and hanhagas haTorah.
He is expected to formally begin his regular schedule at Bais Medrash Govoha during the current zman, with Sunday’s kabolas panim marking his official welcome by the yeshiva and its talmidim.
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Lakewood AlertsA New Jersey State Police sergeant from Howell has died after complications stemming from a work-related injury, state officials and family members confirmed.
Sgt. First Class Sean W. Acker died last Wednesday at the age of 48, according to Acting New Jersey State Police Superintendent David Sierotowicz.
Acker, who served with the New Jersey State Police for nearly two decades, was remembered by colleagues, family members, and community organizations as a dedicated public servant, instructor, and family man.
Born in Abington, Pennsylvania, Acker moved to Howell with his family as a child and grew up there, where he played sports and formed lasting friendships. He enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1998, attaining the rank of staff sergeant. During his military service, he became one of the first members of the Air Force Phoenix Ravens, an elite security unit responsible for protecting aircraft operating in high-threat environments.
After retiring from the Air Force, Acker joined the New Jersey State Police in 2006. During his career, he served as an instructor at the State Police Academy, where he trained and mentored hundreds of troopers. He later became head instructor for the academy’s physical training unit, a role in which he was widely respected for his discipline and leadership.
According to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, the physical demands of the role — which included running recruits five to 10 miles per day — led to severe hip damage that required a double hip replacement. While preparing to return to full duty, Acker experienced further medical complications. A blood clot led to cardiac arrest and a pulmonary embolism, causing a traumatic brain injury. He spent the remainder of his life attempting to recover from those injuries.
His family said Acker faced that struggle with resilience and humility, maintaining his concern for others despite his condition.
Beyond his professional service, Acker was deeply involved in the Howell community. Howell Central Little League remembered him as both a former player and longtime volunteer coach who was known for being demanding but fair. League officials said he played a key role in mentoring young athletes, including coaching teams that won district and regional championships.
Acker is survived by his wife, Lisa, a retired captain with the New Jersey State Police, and their two children, Connor and Samantha. Family members described him as a devoted husband and father whose life was defined by integrity, service, and compassion.
State Police officials and community leaders said his legacy will endure through the troopers he trained, the players he coached, and the many lives he touched through his service and generosity.
Lakewood AlertsBusiness and government leaders gathered this past Wednesday morning for a Legislative Breakfast at the Harrogate Community event hall, where newly elected regional officials were introduced to members of the local business community.
The event was organized by the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce and opened by Chamber Director and Deputy Mayor Menashe Miller, who welcomed attendees and introduced several public officials.
Miller presented State Sen. Carmen Amato Jr., who has represented the 9th Legislative District since 2024, as well as Ocean County Commissioners Ray Gormley and Sam Ellenbogen, both elected in November 2025.
State Sen. Robert Singer, who represents Lakewood and surrounding communities in the 30th District, also addressed attendees and spoke about Amato’s role in the Legislature. Singer described him as an experienced and motivated leader who brings renewed energy to the Senate.
During his remarks, Amato emphasized the importance of small businesses to the regional and state economy, referring to them as “the backbone” of Lakewood, Ocean County, and New Jersey. He said he would work to reduce costs for businesses and families and pledged to collaborate with Gov. Mikie Sherrill and lawmakers from both parties.
“New Jersey is losing its competitive edge,” Amato said. “We thrive most when we focus on affordability and public safety.”
Miller thanked the newly elected officials for participating in the event and for working with the Chamber to support local businesses, promote economic growth, and create jobs. He also acknowledged New Jersey Natural Gas as the event’s sponsor.
In addition, Miller noted that several new businesses have recently joined the Chamber, including Norcast Media, Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital, and French & Parrello Associates.
Following the formal program, attendees participated in a networking session, meeting with business owners, elected officials, and community leaders.
“The Chamber serves as the primary vehicle where businesses and government work together effectively to get things done,” Miller said. “We look forward to continuing to work together with both our longstanding members and those who recently came onboard to ensure that the Lakewood economy’s brightest days are still to come.”
Lakewood AlertsA new, coordinated process governing the mesivta farher season in Lakewood was implemented this year in an effort to restore order to the high school admissions system and prevent early, unregulated acceptance practices.
For many years, local mesivtas had followed an informal agreement that farhers and admissions would begin in the month of Shevat. This schedule allowed eighth-grade students to spend much of the winter zman preparing and gave families time to evaluate schools.
In recent years, rapid growth in the Lakewood yeshiva system led to increased competition among mesivtas. Last year, the lack of a binding agreement resulted in admissions beginning as early as the start of winter zman.
Some schools issued acceptances before formal interviews were held, often based on brief conversations with rebbe’im. In many cases, parents had little opportunity to visit schools or carefully consider placements. Rebbeim reported that this early acceptance process weakened student motivation, as many boys reduced their learning efforts once they had secured a placement.
In response, a group of rebbeim and menahelim organized a community-wide effort to reestablish structure in the admissions process. BMG Rosh Yeshiva Rav Yisroel Neuman shlit”a agreed to oversee the initiative and convened a series of meetings beginning in the summer. At these meetings, participants developed a formal system designed to delay the start of the admissions process and ensure greater coordination between elementary schools and mesivtas.
Under the new framework:
Throughout the year, additional meetings were held to refine the process and address logistical concerns.
Rebbeim reported that the delayed admissions schedule led to increased academic focus among eighth-grade students. Schools were able to complete review sessions and examinations without the pressure of early acceptances. Administrators also noted that parents had more time to research schools, visit campuses, and consult with educators before making decisions.
Mesivtos indicate that the standardized schedule is reducing competition-driven pressure and limited the need for rushed admissions decisions.
Despite its reported successes, the new process has also drawn criticism from some parents. One concern raised is that bochurim are now required to identify a preferred mesivta early in the process without knowing whether they will be accepted. In some cases, boys who were not granted early interviews at their first-choice mesivtas are unable to pursue alternative options simultaneously and are later forced to seek placement at less-preferred mesivtos.
Critics argue that the system places greater control in the hands of institutions while limiting flexibility for students and families. They contend that this dynamic can leave some boys without realistic options during the early stages of admissions, increasing stress and uncertainty.
Supporters of the new framework respond that the structure is necessary to prevent a return to last year’s unregulated environment and that greater stability benefits most bochurim.
Organizers of the initiative say the standardized calendar and cooperative approach have laid the groundwork for future admissions cycles. They hope that continued coordination among chedarim, mesivtas, and rabbanim will maintain consistency in coming years.
At the same time, community leaders acknowledge that adjustments may be needed to address concerns about choice and access.
Lakewood AlertsA fire that broke out Saturday afternoon at a commercial building on Lacey Road in Manchested prompted the evacuation of multiple businesses and caused significant damage, authorities said.
According to the Manchester Township Police Department, officers responded at approximately 2:25 p.m. on February 7, 2026, to a report of smoke coming from the ceiling at Dickey’s Barbeque Pit – Whiting, located at 108 Lacey Road in Manchester Township.
When officers arrived, they observed active flames and heavy smoke venting from the side of the building. Police immediately evacuated all occupants from Dickey’s Barbeque Pit and the neighboring Whiting Bar & Spirits, as well as several nearby businesses, as a precaution.
Authorities later determined that the surrounding businesses were not affected by the fire.
Firefighters from multiple area departments responded within minutes and launched a coordinated fire suppression effort that brought the blaze under control and prevented it from spreading further. Responding agencies included the Whiting, Manchester, Ridgeway, Lakehurst, New Egypt, Forked River, Bayville, and Pinewald Pioneer volunteer fire companies, along with the Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Fire Department.
EMTs from the Manchester Township Division of Emergency Services also assisted at the scene.
Additional support was provided by Jersey Central Power & Light, New Jersey Natural Gas, the Manchester Utilities Authority, and the township’s building inspector.
As a result of the fire, both Dickey’s Barbeque Pit and Whiting Bar & Spirits sustained significant damage and were deemed unsafe for occupancy.
No injuries were reported.
The incident is being investigated by the Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office in conjunction with Detective Thomas Chant of the Manchester Township Police Department’s Investigations Bureau. Officials said the fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by an electrical malfunction.
Lakewood AlertsBais Medrash Govoha will hold a special kabolas panim Sunday evening to formally welcome its newly appointed mashgiach, Rav Reuven Hechster shlit”a.
The event is scheduled to take place at 6:50 p.m. Sunday in the yeshiva’s dining room ampus and is expected to draw thousands of attendees.
The asifa follows the recent announcement by BMG of Rav Hechster’s appointment as mashgiach. He previously served as mashgiach of Mir Brachfeld in Modiin Illit, a position he will continue to hold alongside his new responsibilities in Lakewood.
Rav Hechster was a close talmid of the late Rav Nosson Wachtfogel zt”l, who served for decades as mashgiach of Bais Medrash Govoha and helped shape its approach to mussar and avodas Hashem.
As previously reported by Lakewood Alerts, Rav Hechster was approached with the proposal to assume the Lakewood post and sought hadracha from Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch shlit”a before reaching a decision.
Community leaders from Modiin Illit appealed for him to remain in his current role, citing his extensive involvement in mussar shmuessen, vaadim, and personal guidance. At the same time, representatives from Lakewood urged him to accept the position.
Following consultations, it was agreed that Rav Hechster would divide his time between the two institutions. Under the arrangement, he will spend approximately 20 days each month in Modiin Illit and 10 days in Lakewood, traveling to the United States following his free Shabbos in Israel.
Rav Hechster was originally appointed as mashgiach of Mir Brachfeld by Rav Nosson Tzvi Finkel zt”l, strengthening his longstanding connection to the Mir derech in mussar and hanhagas haTorah.
He is expected to formally begin his regular schedule at Bais Medrash Govoha during the current zman, with Sunday’s kabolas panim marking his official welcome by the yeshiva and its talmidim.
Lakewood AlertsA fatal two-vehicle crash is under investigation after a head-on collision Thursday afternoon on Toms River Road in Jackson Township.
According to police, the crash occurred at approximately 4:06 p.m. on February 6, 2026, on County Road 571 near Aiden Lane. Jackson Police, Fire, and First Aid units responded to reports of a collision involving two vehicles, one of which was on fire, with a possible occupant trapped inside.
Findings indicated that a black 2022 Toyota Sienna traveling northbound crossed the double yellow centerline for unknown reasons and struck a southbound Ford F-250 head-on.
The driver of the Toyota, identified as 80-year-old Michael McDonald of Jackson Township, was pronounced dead at the scene. No additional injuries were immediately reported.
The Jackson Police Traffic Safety Unit is conducting the investigation. Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has relevant information to contact Police Officer Thomas Parise at 732-928-1111.
Lakewood AlertsThe bomb threat at Georgian Court University on Thursday was the work of a minor from Hazlet, New Jersey, who has since been arrested and charged, according to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office.
Authorities said the juvenile has been charged with making terroristic threats and causing a false public alarm. Officials declined to release the individual’s age or other identifying information, citing state laws that protect the identities of minors charged with criminal offenses.
Georgian Court officials notified Lakewood police at approximately 2:45 p.m. Thursday after receiving a phone call claiming that a bomb had been placed in a dormitory room. As a precaution, university buildings were evacuated.
Lakewood police, along with the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit, responded to the scene and conducted thorough searches of campus buildings. Each location was checked and cleared before students, faculty, and staff were allowed to return, authorities said.
The investigation was led by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Gangs/Intelligence/Homeland Security Unit in coordination with Lakewood detectives and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Investigators determined that the threatening call originated from a minor residing in Hazlet.
The juvenile was taken into custody and is being held at the Ocean County Juvenile Detention Center, officials said.
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer praised the coordinated response by multiple agencies involved in the case.
“I want to thank all of the law enforcement officers that responded quickly and worked through the night,” Billhimer said. “This was a great example of multiple law enforcement agencies working cohesively to ensure the campus was safe and to ultimately locate this juvenile and take him into custody.”
Billhimer added that the Hazlet Police Department and the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office assisted in the investigation.
Lakewood AlertsThe Manchester Township Police Department promoted Officer Christian Nazario to the rank of lieutenant during a ceremony held earlier this week.
Police Chief Antonio Ellis announced the promotion, which took place in the presence of family members, colleagues, and township officials. Joseph Hankins administered the oath of office.
In a statement, Ellis cited Nazario’s leadership and service as key factors in the promotion.
“As a proven leader who has supervised both the Narcotics Enforcement Team and Investigations Bureau as a detective sergeant, Lt. Nazario’s dedication to this agency and our residents remains unmatched,” Ellis said.
Nazario, a lifelong resident of Manchester Township, began his law enforcement career as a Police Explorer and Auxiliary Officer. He holds a master’s degree in business administration and graduated second overall from the Ocean County Police Academy, Class No. 86.
He joined the department in 2007 and has served in multiple roles, including field training officer, Police Explorer advisor, and operator with the Ocean County Regional SWAT Team.
His investigative background includes assignments with the department’s Narcotics Enforcement Team and the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, where he served as a team leader during what officials described as the county’s largest drug investigation at the time.
Promoted to sergeant in 2021, Nazario supervised the Narcotics Enforcement Team and led the department’s first strict liability drug-induced death investigation, as well as its largest drug trafficking seizure. In 2024, he returned to the Investigations Bureau, overseeing departmental programs and serving as liaison to the Manchester School District.
Nazario has completed advanced leadership training through the FBI LEEDA institutes and currently serves as president of the Superior Officers Association union. He has received more than 30 commendations for leadership and service.
Ellis credited township leadership and staff for supporting the department’s leadership development.
“This day would not have been possible without the continued support of Mayor Hankins, the Township Council, and the administration,” Ellis said. “We wish Lt. Nazario well as he assumes this new leadership role.”
Lakewood AlertsA single-vehicle crash in Manchester ended in a car fire early Thursday.
According to the Manchester Township Police Department, officers were dispatched around 8:05 a.m. to the area of Courtney Lane and Renaissance Boulevard following reports of a crash involving a vehicle fire.
When officers arrived, they found a black 2011 Hyundai Sonata fully engulfed in flames. Police confirmed the vehicle was unoccupied and established a safety perimeter while fire crews responded.
Multiple fire department arrived on scene and quickly extinguished the blaze.
Authorities identified the driver as a 49-year-old Toms River resident. The driver told police he experienced a complete brake failure while traveling northbound on Renaissance Drive and noticed smoke coming from the front of his vehicle.
In an effort to avoid a more serious collision, the driver intentionally steered into a snow embankment and then turned onto Renaissance Boulevard, where the vehicle struck another embankment on the passenger side before coming to rest near Courtney Lane. He exited the car safely, police said, before it caught fire.
Investigators said the severity of the damage prevented a mechanical inspection of the braking system or a full assessment of impact-related damage. Officials added that the fire does not appear suspicious.
No injuries were reported.
The department credited the coordinated response of local fire agencies for preventing further damage.
Lakewood AlertsRep. Chris Smith has secured more than $23.8 million in federal funding for infrastructure, public safety, environmental, and humanitarian projects across Ocean and Monmouth counties.
The funding was included in the recently approved consolidated federal budget through congressional earmarks submitted by Smith. His office said the allocations are intended to address a range of local needs, from drinking water and flood control to law enforcement and community services.
Among the earmarks, $275,000 is designated to upgrade Lakewood Shomrim’s radio communication infrastructure. The funding is aimed at improving reliability, coverage, and interoperability with law enforcement and emergency agencies.
Lakewood Shomrim works closely with local and county authorities to assist with missing persons cases, emergency response, and community safety. Officials said improved communications are expected to strengthen coordination during emergencies and large-scale incidents.
In addition to the Shomrim allocation, Smith’s earmarks include the following projects:
$1,750,000 for Manchester Township to construct a permanent water treatment facility to improve drinking water quality and mitigate PFOS contamination.
$2,000,000 for the Ocean County Utilities Authority to replace aging valves, gates, and covers at pump stations to improve wastewater treatment.
$480,000 for the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office to expand and modernize its vehicle fleet.
$540,000 for the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office to upgrade communications equipment and improve interoperability with emergency agencies.
$2,000,000 to address safety and congestion issues along County Road 537, from CR 526/571 to Gravel Hill Road.
$5,640,000 for Naval Air Engineering Station Lakehurst and Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst to construct a Secure Test Aviation Research Hangar with enhanced physical and cyber security features.
$1,490,000 to restore and renovate the historic Manitou Park School House in Berkeley Township, a former segregated school with ties to the civil rights movement.
$275,000 for Lakewood Shomrim to upgrade radio communications and strengthen coordination with law enforcement.
$271,498 for Dottie’s House, a domestic violence shelter in Brick, to support clinical services and replace aging building systems.
$3,200,000 for construction of a new air traffic control tower at Naval Air Station Lakehurst, replacing the current structure from the 1970s.
$1,000,000 for the Borough of Belmar to improve water quality at Silver Lake through shoreline restoration and stormwater management.
$247,000 for Covenant House New Jersey to launch a statewide human trafficking prevention program in schools.
$2,000,000 to restore and improve stormwater management at Shadow Lake in the Navesink River system between Middletown and Red Bank.
$2,000,000 for Lakewood Township to improve roadway, drainage, and sewer infrastructure along the Cross Street Corridor, including Maplehurst Avenue, Newport Avenue, Franklin Boulevard, and Faraday Avenue.
$1,000,000 for Eatontown Township to repair infrastructure around Wampum Lake and reduce flooding risks.
Lakewood AlertsAs the 2026 tax season approaches, Ocean County College is once again offering free income tax preparation services to qualified community members through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.
Beginning Feb. 5, accounting students trained and certified by the Internal Revenue Service will prepare and file federal and state tax returns at no cost. The program is aimed at underserved populations, including seniors and individuals with modest incomes.
College officials said the service provides a reliable and secure option for taxpayers.
Student volunteers receive formal training in tax law and approved tax software and must pass IRS certification exams. Each return is also subject to a quality review before being filed to ensure accuracy and compliance.
The IRS has operated the VITA program through partner sites nationwide for more than 50 years, preparing millions of returns annually. At Ocean County College, the program was introduced during the 2025 tax season and was continued this year following its initial success.
College President Pamela Monaco said the initiative benefits both residents and students.
“This is a wonderful approach to serve our various constituencies while providing students the opportunity to practice their skills as they give back to others,” Monaco said. She added that students from Kean University are also participating through collaboration with OCC faculty.
Former OCC accounting student Trish Archimbaud will serve as site coordinator for the second consecutive year.
“Having a VITA center on campus not only helps our community, but it also offers students hands-on experience in the accounting profession,” Archimbaud said. “They learn to interact with taxpayers in a professional setting and prepare tax returns.”
The VITA site will operate from Feb. 5 through April 15 on the Ocean County College main campus in the Library Building (Building 3), Room 1, also known as the Library Tower.
Appointments are available Monday through Thursday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The site will be closed on Presidents Day, Feb. 16. Walk-in and drop-off services are not available.
Residents seeking assistance must meet eligibility requirements and schedule an appointment in advance. Additional information is available at go.ocean.edu/VITA or by email at [email protected].
Lakewood AlertsA large-scale emergency response was initiated after a bomb threat was received by Georgian Court University in Lakewood on Thursday afternoon.
The college, which has approximately 1,900 students, was evacuated as a precaution. Authorities allowed students back on campus at around 5:30 pm, following a sweep with K-9 units that found no threats.
Specific details about the hoax have not yet been disclosed by authorities. However, the threat was apparently made during a Holocaust Remembrance event taking place at the the university.
It is currently unknown whether there is a connection between the event and the threat.
Lakewood AlertsA large-scale emergency response has been initiated after a bomb threat was received by Georgian Court University in Lakewood.
The college, which has approximately 1,900 students, has been evacuated as a precaution.
Specific details about the threat have not yet been disclosed by authorities.
Developing.
Lakewood AlertsA Piscataway man has pleaded guilty to distributing cocaine in Ocean County following a multi-agency investigation that uncovered drug sales in Lakewood and Toms River.
Ocean County Prosecutor Brad Billhimer said Shaun Anderson, 47, entered his guilty plea on Feb. 2, 2026, to one count of distributing more than one-half ounce of cocaine.
Anderson appeared before Superior Court Judge Guy P. Ryan in Ocean County Superior Court. Prosecutors plan to seek a 10-year sentence in New Jersey State Prison when he is sentenced on March 27.
The charges stem from a January 2024 investigation conducted by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, the New Jersey State Police, and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration.
Authorities said the investigation determined that Anderson was distributing cocaine throughout the county. As part of the probe, he sold the drug to undercover law enforcement officers in Lakewood and Toms River, officials said.
Anderson was taken into custody by state police on March 21, 2024. He was charged and released on a summons while awaiting future court appearances.
Prosecutor Billhimer credited Senior Assistant Prosecutor Stephen Burke, who is handling the case, and praised the efforts of multiple agencies involved in the investigation, including the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force and High Tech Crime Squad, the Ocean County Regional SWAT Team, and the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas task force.
“This case reflects the importance of coordinated law enforcement efforts in addressing drug distribution in our communities,” Billhimer said in a statement.
Lakewood AlertsA New Jersey appellate court has upheld Jackson Township’s approval of a major new school campus, delivering a sweeping legal victory to the township and school officials after months of litigation brought by neighboring property owners.
In a ruling issued Wednesday, the Superior Court’s Appellate Division affirmed the trial court’s dismissal of a lawsuit challenging the Jackson Township Planning Board’s approval of a four-building private school campus proposed by Bais Yaakov of Jackson (Bais Faiga).
The case stemmed from a 2022 application by Bais Yaakov of Jackson to build a large all-girls religious school campus on nearly 38 acres along East Veterans Highway. The project includes an elementary school, two high schools, and a gymnasium, with capacity for approximately 2,350 students and 250 staff members.
Several nearby property owners sued after the Planning Board granted approval in March 2023, arguing that the decision was flawed and unlawful. They alleged conflicts of interest, environmental errors, traffic problems, inadequate parking, zoning violations, and unfair hearing procedures.
Both the trial court and appellate judges rejected those claims, concluding that the Board acted lawfully and reasonably.
“The trial court rejected these claims and dismissed the complaint. We affirm,” the appellate panel wrote.
A major focus of the lawsuit involved environmental and traffic issues. Opponents claimed the school’s Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) misclassified wildlife habitat and failed to properly account for endangered species. The court acknowledged that one area may have been misranked but ruled the mistake was harmless because the land in question would not be developed.
Judges also noted that the township’s Environmental Commission reviewed the project and found “no immediate environmental concerns,” supporting the Board’s decision.
Traffic studies submitted by Bais Yaakov’s engineers projected that most students would arrive by bus, with limited parent drop-offs. Experts testified that with planned roadway improvements and a new traffic signal, nearby intersections would operate at acceptable levels.
The court found that the Board was entitled to rely on this professional testimony.
The project required several variances and waivers, including for lot width and parking. Township planners had initially raised concerns about compliance and recommended further review.
During hearings, Bais Yaakov’s engineers revised plans, explained “land-banked” parking spaces, and testified that zoning standards would ultimately be met.
The Board concluded that the benefits of the project outweighed any drawbacks, a determination the courts declined to overturn.
Plaintiffs also alleged that then-Planning Board Chairman Tzvi Herman had a conflict of interest because the school’s attorney represented a synagogue connected to him in a separate matter.
Both courts rejected the claim, finding the connection “too tenuous and remote” to justify disqualification.
The appellate panel emphasized that conflict rules should not be applied so broadly that they cripple local government.
In affirming the ruling, the judges stressed that courts must defer to local planning boards unless their actions are “arbitrary, capricious, or unreasonable.”
After reviewing the full record, the panel found no basis to interfere with Jackson’s decision.
Lakewood AlertsAs the Lakewood region experiences an extended stretch of record cold temperatures, local officials are warning residents about a rise in frozen and burst water pipes, which have led to flooding and significant property damage in some cases.
The Lakewood Township Municipal Utilities Authority (MUA) and New Jersey American Water (NJAW) issued a joint advisory urging homeowners and property owners to take preventive steps to protect plumbing systems during severe winter conditions.
According to the agencies, frozen pipes remain one of the most common winter-related water emergencies, but many incidents can be avoided through basic precautions.
Officials recommend that residents maintain indoor temperatures at a minimum of 55 degrees around the clock, even when homes are unoccupied. Pipes located in unheated areas—such as garages, exterior walls, and basements—should be wrapped with insulation or heat tape to reduce the risk of freezing.
Residents are also advised to leave a small, steady drip of water running from faucets, especially in sinks, tubs, and showers that are not used regularly. Even minimal water flow can help prevent pipes from freezing in extreme cold.
In addition, homeowners are encouraged to locate their main water shut-off valve in advance, so it can be accessed quickly in an emergency. If a pipe freezes or bursts, officials say residents should immediately shut off the main water supply or the valve controlling the affected area and contact a licensed plumber for repairs.
“Running some drops of water and other cheap, easy solutions—now—can prevent thousands of dollars or more of damage later on,” said Justin Flancbaum, executive director of the MUA. “We thank our residents for their cooperation and proactivity during this rough winter season.”
Chelsea Kulp, director of communications and external affairs for NJAW, emphasized that many winter plumbing emergencies are avoidable.
“Frozen pipes are one of the most common—and most preventable—winter water emergencies,” Kulp said. “We’re grateful to Lakewood Township for helping guide residents on how to prevent damage and keep the water flowing all season.”
Local officials said following these guidelines can help residents avoid costly repairs, minimize water damage, and reduce strain on utility systems during prolonged cold weather.
Lakewood AlertsJackson Township officials on Tuesday praised local and regional emergency responders for their coordinated response to a structure fire at the Club at Jackson development on Mantoloking Drive.
In a statement, Mayor Jennifer Kuhn and the Jackson Township Council thanked firefighters, police officers, medical personnel, and volunteers who worked through the night to contain the blaze and protect residents.
Officials highlighted the efforts of Fire District 4 and other Jackson fire districts, along with assistance from the Freehold Independent Fire Company and the Joint Base Fire Department. Township leaders said the mutual aid response helped ensure continued fire coverage across the community while crews remained committed at the scene.
“Their coordination and experience were critical in bringing a complex fire under control under challenging conditions,” the statement said.
The mayor and council also recognized the Jackson Police Department, noting that the department’s new chief was on scene as officers worked to evacuate residents and secure the area. Additional thanks were extended to Jackson Township Emergency Medical Services and the Jackson Township Office of Emergency Management for their role in coordinating the response.
Volunteer emergency and community support groups were also acknowledged, including Hatzalah of Central Jersey and Chaverim of Central Jersey, which officials said provided vital support to both residents and first responders during the incident.
Township leaders described the response as an example of agencies working together “with focus and professionalism,” emphasizing the importance of interagency cooperation during major emergencies.
Mayor Kuhn also expressed appreciation on behalf of the Jackson 21 community, the homeowners association, and township residents, thanking every firefighter, police officer, EMT, and volunteer who assisted at the scene.
“Jackson is safer because of your service,” the statement said. “We are grateful for it.”
Lakewood AlertsA $12 million transportation improvement project is planned for Cedar Bridge Avenue (County Route 528), aiming to enhance safety and mobility along one of Ocean County’s busiest corridors.
The project, funded by the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority, will cover the stretch from South Clifton Avenue to Airport Road in Lakewood Township. The roadway serves major commercial areas, community facilities, and key regional travel routes.
According to the New Jersey Department of Transportation, the corridor ranked highest in Ocean County for pedestrian and bicycle safety concerns and second overall for corridor safety issues on the agency’s 2023 network screening list.
“This project addresses longstanding safety issues along a vital corridor for our residents and visitors,” said Frank Sadeghi, director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners and co-liaison to the county’s engineering department. He said the upgrades are intended to reduce crashes and improve conditions for pedestrians and cyclists.
Planned improvements include upgraded traffic signals at six intersections, construction of a shared-use path for walkers and cyclists, widened shoulders, high-visibility crosswalks, Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant curb ramps, and improved roadway lighting.
Ray Gormley, also a co-liaison to the engineering department, said the project builds on earlier improvements completed in
2015 and 2017.
“These upgrades will allow the county to fully implement recommendations from a 2014 road safety audit,” Gormley said.
“Upgrading Cedar Bridge Avenue will benefit everyone who lives, works, and travels through Ocean County.”
Preliminary design work is expected to begin in the summer of 2026. Ocean County will oversee the project in cooperation with NJTPA, the New Jersey Department of Transportation, and local officials.
County officials said the initiative reflects a continued commitment to roadway safety and long-term infrastructure planning as the region grows, with an emphasis on reducing accidents and improving access for all users.
Lakewood AlertsNew Jersey Acting Attorney General Jennifer Davenport announced Tuesday that New Jersey and New York have filed a federal lawsuit against the Trump administration, alleging it illegally withheld billions of dollars in funding for the Gateway Tunnel project.
Speaking at a press conference at Newark Penn Station, Davenport said the states are seeking emergency court action to lift a freeze on approximately $15 billion in federally committed funds for the Hudson River rail crossing between northern New Jersey and New York City.
The lawsuit, filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, asks for immediate relief to prevent the U.S. Department of Transportation from continuing what officials described as an indefinite funding suspension.
According to the complaint, the freeze threatens ongoing construction, puts thousands of jobs at risk, and could disrupt rail service for hundreds of thousands of commuters.
Gov. Mikie Sherrill said the funding halt could lead to immediate job losses and long-term transportation problems.
“If this project stops, 1,000 workers will immediately lose their jobs and hundreds of thousands of commuters will lose the chance at finally having reliable train service,” Sherrill said.
Davenport said the states were left with no alternative but to pursue legal action.
“The President’s decision to freeze funding jeopardizes safe and reliable infrastructure and puts thousands of jobs at risk,” she said.
The Gateway project, launched in 2019, is designed to build new rail tunnels and rehabilitate existing ones that carry NJ Transit and Amtrak trains between New Jersey and New York. The current tunnel, built in 1910, was heavily damaged during Superstorm Sandy in 2012 and continues to experience deterioration.
State officials said the tunnel serves about 200,000 daily commuters and that, without new infrastructure, capacity could eventually be reduced by up to 75 percent during peak hours, potentially costing the region an estimated $100 million per day in economic losses.
New Jersey and New York have jointly invested more than $500 million in the project, and New Jersey has acquired more than 100 parcels of land for construction, according to court filings.
The states said the DOT announced the funding freeze on Sept. 30, 2025, citing a compliance review. The announcement came shortly before a potential government shutdown and did not include a detailed explanation, officials said.
President Donald Trump has publicly stated that the funding halt was intended to terminate Democratic-backed projects, including the Gateway initiative. He has also linked the decision to opposition from New York officials and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.
Last week, the Gateway Development Commission notified contractors that active construction must cease by Friday, Feb. 6, due to the funding freeze. The commission filed a separate lawsuit alleging breach of contract by federal authorities.
State officials said their own lawsuit is necessary because New Jersey and New York face independent financial and operational losses, including costs to secure construction sites and prevent public safety hazards if work stops.
The states are seeking a preliminary injunction and other emergency relief by Feb. 6 to prevent layoffs and further disruption to the project.
Lakewood AlertsHatzolah of Central Jersey announced that Yaakov Taub of Toms River has joined the organization’s Vaad, adding new representation from the township to its leadership structure.
Taub, a healthcare owner and operator, brings professional experience in patient care and operations, along with long-standing involvement in community initiatives. Hatzolah officials said his background provides insight into the needs of patients and families served by the organization.
The appointment comes as Hatzolah of Central Jersey continues to expand in response to sustained population growth and increased demand for emergency medical services across its service area. Over the past decade, the organization has broadened recruitment and training efforts, supported members in obtaining paramedic certification, expanded and upgraded its ambulance and response vehicle fleet, and advanced plans for additional garages to improve regional coverage.
Alongside operational growth, Hatzolah has been expanding its leadership structure to reflect its wider geographic footprint. Officials said recent steps have included strengthening town-level coordination, onboarding a new captain from Jackson, and now adding Vaad representation from Toms River through Taub’s appointment.
According to the organization, these changes are intended to ensure that leadership, oversight, and community engagement keep pace with where members live and respond.
Hatzolah officials said Taub’s addition is expected to strengthen the Vaad’s role in guiding the organization’s operational, administrative, and strategic development as it continues to scale its emergency response capabilities.
The organization welcomed Taub and said it looks forward to his contributions as Hatzolah of Central Jersey continues its growth and service to the region.
Lakewood AlertsEligible seniors and disabled residents in New Jersey can once again apply for multiple property tax relief programs through a single, streamlined application, following the relaunch of the state’s combined PAS-1 form, state officials announced.
The PAS-1 allows residents aged 65 and older, as well as disabled homeowners and mobile homeowners, to apply for the ANCHOR, Senior Freeze and Stay NJ programs using one application. The online form is now available through the state’s property tax relief portal.
The New Jersey Division of Taxation will begin mailing paper application booklets to more than 500,000 households this week. About 162,000 residents who applied online last season are expected to receive postcards encouraging them to reapply electronically.
The combined application replaced separate forms previously required for ANCHOR and Senior Freeze and now also includes the state’s newer Stay NJ program. Officials said the unified system is designed to simplify the application process and increase participation.
Beginning Feb. 9, the Division of Taxation will start mailing the first installments of Stay NJ benefits to approved applicants who filed the PAS-1 last season. Additional details on those payments are expected later.
Although residents are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, most benefits will not be distributed until 2026 and 2027. The state expects to issue Senior Freeze benefits in July 2026, ANCHOR payments in September 2026, and Stay NJ benefits in February 2027. All programs remain subject to annual state budget appropriations.
The deadline to submit the PAS-1 application is Nov. 2, 2026.
“The PAS-1 application transformed how seniors and disabled residents apply for property tax relief in New Jersey, making it easier than ever before to access these critical programs,” said Aaron Binder, the state’s acting treasurer. “As we work to increase participation across our array of property tax relief initiatives, we encourage every eligible taxpayer to take advantage of this simple, easy-to-use, one-stop application.”
In late 2026, the Division of Taxation plans to send letters to applicants outlining the benefit amounts calculated under each program.
State officials also highlighted several changes and reminders for this application cycle.
For Senior Freeze recipients, income eligibility thresholds have been updated. Applicants must have had total annual income of $168,268 or less in 2024 and $172,475 or less in 2025. In addition, the Income Worksheet is now included directly in the application, rather than in separate instructions. Taxpayers who recently moved will receive new worksheets.
For ANCHOR, income limits remain unchanged. Homeowners must earn $250,000 or less annually, while tenants must earn no more than $150,000.
For Stay NJ, the maximum income threshold also remains the same as last year, with homeowners eligible if their income does not exceed $500,000.
Officials said the consolidated application is intended to improve access to property tax relief and reduce paperwork for eligible residents across the state.
Lakewood AlertsThe Lakewood Police Department participated this past weekend in a Special Olympics Area Bowling Meet held at Ocean Lanes, bringing together athletes from Monmouth and Ocean counties.
The event, organized in partnership with Special Olympics, featured competitors vying for top placements that would qualify them for sectional-level competition. Athletes who finished first or second in their divisions earned advancement to the next round.
Participants competed throughout the day, demonstrating consistent effort, focus, and sportsmanship. Spectators and volunteers observed a high level of engagement as bowlers worked through multiple frames in pursuit of qualification.
Officials and organizers thanked Ocean Lanes for hosting the meet and providing space for the competition, as well as community members and volunteers who attended in support of the athletes.
Those who qualified will advance to sectionals in the coming weeks, continuing their participation in the Special Olympics bowling program.
Lakewood AlertsOcean County Prosecutor Brad Billhimer announced that on February 3, 2026, at approximately 7:05 p.m., the Jackson Township Police and Fire Departments responded to a structure fire on Mantoloking Drive.
Upon arrival, emergency personnel observed heavy fire throughout the end unit of a multifamily structure. The structure was currently under construction and did not have any utilities connected.
The cause and origin of the fire are currently under investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Arson Squad, Jackson Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Jackson Township Fire Bureau, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigations Unit.
Lakewood AlertsOcean County Prosecutor Brad Billhimer announced that a structure fire that broke out on Tuesday night on Mantoloking Drive (Jackson 21) in Jackson has been ruled accidental following a multi-agency investigation.
According to the prosecutor, the Jackson Township Police Department and the Jackson Township Fire Bureau responded to the fire at approximately 7:05 p.m. on February 3, 2026. Upon arrival, emergency personnel observed heavy fire conditions in the end unit of a multifamily structure.
Officials said the building was under construction at the time and did not have any utilities connected.
An investigation conducted by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Arson Squad, the Jackson Township Police Department Detective Bureau, the Jackson Township Fire Bureau, and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigations Unit determined that the fire originated in the center hallway on the first floor.
Investigators concluded that the blaze was accidental and likely caused by a propane convection heater that had been placed too close to combustible materials.
In his statement, Billhimer acknowledged the cooperative efforts of the participating agencies, citing their joint work in determining the origin and cause of the fire.
No injuries were reported, and authorities did not indicate that any criminal activity was involved.
Lakewood AlertsFirefighters responded Tuesday night to a fire at Shiras Devorah Girls High School on Oak Street in Lakewood, where hundreds of students were inside the building preparing for a school expo.
The girls were safely evacuated to the Bais Tova gym after flames were reported inside Shiras Devorah’s walls and smoke was detected in the basement. Emergency crews arrived quickly and began investigating the source of the fire.
All students are safe and have been accounted for. No injuries were reported.
Hatzolah was dispatched as a precaution.
It remains unclear whether the fire was connected in any way to the planned student-led expo, which had been scheduled to take place at the school.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the fire.
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Lakewood AlertsA huge fire broke out on Tuesday night in an under-development section of Jackson 21. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined.
Firefighters were working feverishly to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreader to additional units.
There have been no immediate reports of injuries.
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Lakewood AlertsA 19-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with a violent carjacking and aggravated assault of a taxi driver in Howell Township last month, police announced.
According to the Howell Township Police Department, the incident occurred on Jan. 16 at approximately 11:15 p.m., when a patrol officer located a man in distress on Old Tavern Road who was bleeding from the face. Officers rendered aid and determined the victim was a 46-year-old taxi driver employed by an Asbury Park–based taxi company.
Police said the victim reported that at the conclusion of a fare, one of two Hispanic male passengers slashed him in the face with a knife before stealing his vehicle. The victim fled the scene on foot and was later located by an officer who was proactively patrolling the area.
Investigators determined the suspects had hailed the taxi in Neptune Township and requested to be taken to a parking lot across from Oak Glen Park. Upon arrival, one suspect allegedly produced a knife and assaulted the driver, while both suspects fled in the stolen taxi. The vehicle was later found abandoned on Maxim Road. A perimeter was established and a K-9 track was conducted, but the suspects were not located.
The victim was transported to Jersey Shore Medical Center, where he was treated for a facial laceration and listed in stable condition.
Following further investigation led by Detective Vincent Bonner, police identified one of the alleged assailants as Melvin J. Cruz-Salmoran, 19, a foreign national of Mexico who was last known to reside in Neptune Township. Cruz-Salmoran was charged on Feb. 1 with first-degree carjacking, second-degree aggravated assault, third-degree aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose.
On Tuesday, Howell Township detectives, working with the FBI Jersey Shore Safe Streets Task Force, located and apprehended Cruz-Salmoran in Neptune Township. Police said other individuals at the residence attempted to conceal his whereabouts.
Also taken into custody were Jose Luis Acevedo Jimenez, 27, who faces federal immigration charges for allegedly providing false information to authorities; Jennifer Lopez, 22, who was charged locally with providing false information; and Jovanni Cruz-Salmoran, 29, who was arrested on a warrant of removal after federal agents contacted U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and confirmed his status.
Cruz-Salmoran was transported to the Howell Township Police Department for processing and later lodged in the Monmouth County Correctional Institution pending further court proceedings. Acevedo Jimenez and Jovanni Cruz-Salmoran were transported to ICE’s Newark Field Office. Lopez was processed by Neptune Township police and released pending a future court appearance.
Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing as detectives continue efforts to identify and apprehend the second suspect. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Vincent Bonner at 732-938-4575, ext. 2647.
Lakewood AlertsA Brick Township man was arrested Thursday afternoon in connection with a reported shoplifting incident at a Lakewood retail store, police said.
According to authorities, officers responded at approximately 2:19 p.m. on Jan. 29 to Home Depot on Shorrock Street after receiving a report of a theft in progress. Loss Prevention personnel told police they observed a suspect place multiple items into a backpack and attempt to leave the store without paying.
Store staff confronted the suspect outside the store, recovered the merchandise, and escorted him to the Loss Prevention office while police were notified.
Following an investigation, Joshua Hart, 45, of Brick, was arrested and charged with shoplifting under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-11b(1). Police said the value of the merchandise involved was approximately $400.
Hart was transported to Lakewood Police Department headquarters for processing and was later lodged in the Ocean County Jail at the request of store management. The investigation was handled by Officer Waldron.
Lakewood AlertsA burst pipe affecting part of a sprinkler system prompted a precautionary evacuation early Tuesday morning at Whiting Gardens Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Manchester, officials said.
The issue impacted limited areas of the facility, leading Administrator Ari Vinitzky and his staff to begin the relocation of roughly 60 residents as a safety measure. The evacuation was overseen by the Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office, working in coordination with the Manchester Township Office of Emergency Management.
Facility officials emphasized that residents are being moved safely and that there is no danger to the public or immediate risk to residents or staff. Operations continued in unaffected sections of the building while responders addressed the issue.
Family members seeking updates were advised to contact the facility’s administration at 732-849-4400.
No injuries were reported, and officials did not immediately provide a timeline for when relocated residents would return.
Lakewood AlertsJackson Township officials will hold a special swearing-in ceremony for multiple members of the Jackson Township Police Department during the next Township Council meeting on Feb. 10, according to an official announcement from the Township Council.
The meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at the Jackson Township Middle School Fine Arts Auditorium, located at 101 Don Connor Boulevard, and is open to the public.
The evening will include the formal swearing-in of Mary Nelson as police chief, marking the first time a woman has been appointed to lead the Jackson Township Police Department. The ceremony will be conducted by Mayor Jennifer Kuhn.
Additional appointments scheduled for the ceremony include: Richard Bosely, police captain; and John Rodriguez, interim police captain.
The following officers will be sworn in as police lieutenants:
The ceremony will also include the swearing-in of Ryan T. Higgins as police officer.
In a joint statement, Council President Burnstein and Vice Council President Palmeri invited members of the Jackson Township Police Department and the broader community to attend, calling the evening a moment of pride for the township and its police force.
Lakewood AlertsA bill introduced in the New Jersey Senate would authorize municipalities and counties to install automated speed enforcement systems in school zones, creating a limited statewide framework for the use of speed cameras focused on child safety, transparency, and data protections.
The legislation, Senate Bill No. 3218, sponsored by Troy Singleton, is titled the “School Zone Automated Speed Enforcement and Safety Act.” It was introduced on Jan. 28, 2026, during the 222nd Legislature.
If enacted, the bill would carve out a narrow exception to New Jersey’s long-standing prohibition on photo radar, allowing automated speed enforcement only within designated school zones and only under detailed statutory conditions.
Local Approval and Safety Studies Required
Under the proposal, municipalities and counties could install speed cameras in school zones within their jurisdiction, but only after adopting a resolution or ordinance at a public meeting approving each individual location.
Before activation, the governing authority would be required to conduct a traffic engineering and speed study demonstrating a documented safety need, such as a high volume of pedestrian traffic, a history of speeding violations, or a significant number of crashes involving vehicles, pedestrians, or bicyclists.
The systems would be required to meet specific technical standards, including speed accuracy within plus or minus one mile per hour, multiple photographic images of a violating vehicle, and embedded information such as the date, time, location, posted speed limit, recorded speed, and calibration certification.
Speed cameras could issue summonses only for vehicles traveling at least 10 miles per hour over the posted speed limit. For the first 60 days after a system is installed, drivers would receive warnings instead of citations.
After that grace period, enforcement would be limited to weekdays between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., aligning with typical school hours.
The maximum fine for a violation would be capped at $75, with courts required to offer payment plans, reduced fines, or community service options for individuals who demonstrate financial hardship.
Fines could not be reduced below $25 unless community service is ordered. No motor vehicle points or insurance eligibility points would be assessed for violations captured by the automated systems.
Each speed enforcement system would be required to perform daily self-diagnostic calibration checks and undergo annual independent calibration certification. Any summons issued on a day when the system failed its calibration check would be void.
The bill also prohibits vendors from being paid based on the number of tickets issued or revenue generated. Instead, vendors would be limited to flat-fee or time-based compensation models.
The legislation places strict limits on data collection and retention. Systems would be permitted to collect only license plate information, vehicle speed, and the date, time, and location of the alleged violation. The capture or retention of facial images, biometric data, or facial recognition information would be prohibited.
Images and data related to issued summonses would have to be purged within 90 days of final adjudication, while data tied to incidents that do not result in a summons would need to be deleted within 30 days. The bill bars the sharing, sale, or transfer of data except as explicitly authorized.
Municipalities and counties operating the systems would be required to publish annual public reports detailing crash data, summons totals, revenue, expenditures, error rates, calibration logs, and maps of camera locations with safety justifications. The Department of Transportation would then compile and submit a statewide report to the governor and Legislature, including an analysis of equity impacts in lower-income school areas.
All fine revenue would be deposited into a newly created “School Zone Safety Improvement Fund,” to be used exclusively for pedestrian safety projects near schools, traffic reduction efforts, signage and beacon maintenance, and crossing guard training and salaries. Funds would be redistributed annually to local governments based on the number of violations recorded.
Lakewood AlertsFormer Gov. Chris Christie is blaming President Donald Trump for the Republican Party’s bruising losses in New Jersey last year, arguing that the president’s standing in the state turned the GOP’s 2025 elections into “an absolute disaster.”
In an interview Sunday on 770 WABC’s “Cats Roundtable,” Christie said Trump’s unpopularity in the Garden State weighed heavily on Republican nominee Jack Ciattarelli.
“We lost the governorship by 14 points. We lost five seats in the New Jersey General Assembly,” Christie said, noting that the party is now at its lowest representation in the Legislature since Watergate. “It is a desperate time in New Jersey. We forgot how to win.”
Christie, once a close Trump ally before a highly public falling-out, said Ciattarelli’s embrace of the president alienated a critical bloc of voters in a state where Democrats hold a sizable registration advantage.
“The problem for Jack Ciattarelli was when he tied himself so close to the president, a lot of independents in New Jersey were turned off by that,” Christie said. “For the first time in a long time, the Republican candidate for governor actually lost independents to the Democrats. If that happens, you have no chance of winning.”
New Jersey, Christie argued, is uniquely inhospitable terrain for Trump-style politics. “The fact is that the president is not nearly as popular in the state of New Jersey as he is in other parts of the country,” he said, adding that Ciattarelli made himself “100 percent MAGA” — a move that “really, really hurt him.”
The former governor said the scale of the defeat underscored the problem. “It turned out not to be just a small loss, but a huge one,” he said.
Christie also warned that Republican setbacks could have policy consequences. With Democrats firmly in control of state government, he said he would not be surprised if lawmakers raised taxes again, pointing to New Jersey’s already high corporate, property and income tax rates.
Still, Christie sought to draw a contrast between New Jersey Democrats and their counterparts across the Hudson River, arguing that the state’s political climate remains less ideologically rigid than New York’s.
Sherrill, he said, is not a “hard-left Democratic socialist” like New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. “New Jersey is a very tough place,” Christie said, “but I bet you it will be better than New York.”
Christie served as governor from 2010 to 2017, making him the only Republican elected statewide in New Jersey in the 21st century. He ran unsuccessfully for president in 2016 and again in 2024, both times losing out to Trump.
His relationship with the president deteriorated sharply in recent years, with Trump repeatedly taunting Christie over the “Bridgegate” scandal that marred his governorship. While two Christie associates were initially convicted for their roles in the lane-closure scheme at the George Washington Bridge — convictions later overturned by the Supreme Court — Christie has long denied any involvement.
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Lakewood AlertsA Freehold man has been arrested in connection with the theft of a vehicle reported earlier this month, police said.
On January 25, Lakewood Police Officer Tymur Zavalnyuk responded to the area of 166 Main Street following a report of a motor vehicle theft. The victim told police that a 2002 Toyota Camry had been parked in a lot and left running. When the victim returned a short time later, the vehicle was gone.
Surveillance footage captured the theft, and the vehicle was entered into the National Crime Information Center as stolen, police said.
On January 27, the vehicle was located unoccupied in Freehold. A follow-up investigation by Detective Donnelly, working with members of the Freehold Police Department, led to the identification and arrest of Sioni Farrell, 29, of Freehold.
Farrell was charged with theft of a motor vehicle under statute 2C:20-10.1A.
Lakewood AlertsA Howell man has been found guilty in connection with a violent home invasion in Jackson Township in which authorities say he fired multiple shots inside a residence occupied by adults and children.
Gardin A. Guevara-Umanzor, 47, was convicted on Thursday following a jury trial on charges including burglary, multiple weapons offenses, aggravated assault, and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child.
Prosecutors said the jury found that Guevara-Umanzor entered a home on New Prospect Road in Jackson Township during the early morning hours of Oct. 13, 2024, pointed a handgun at one of the occupants, and fired multiple rounds into the residence while several adults and two children were inside.
Jackson police were called to the home around 1:20 a.m. after a 911 call reported an armed intruder firing a weapon inside the residence.
Investigators determined that after the first of five shots was fired, one of the occupants attempted to disarm Guevara-Umanzor, leading to a struggle on the ground. Authorities said he continued firing the handgun during the struggle, while other occupants also tried to intervene.
Guevara-Umanzor eventually dropped the weapon and fled the home, investigators said. The handgun was later recovered inside the residence.
Police located Guevara-Umanzor at a neighboring home, where he was taken into custody without incident. He has been held at the Ocean County Jail since his arrest.
Sentencing is expected later this year.
Lakewood AlertsA New York woman is facing an arson charge after authorities say she intentionally set a fire inside a Toms River hotel late Wednesday night.
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that Constance Koeper, 34, of Elmsford, New York, was charged on Jan. 28 in connection with a fire at the Avon Hotel in Toms River Township.
Police and fire crews responded to the hotel at approximately 11:23 p.m. after a fire alarm was activated. When first responders arrived, they found smoke inside the building.
Investigators later determined that the fire originated in a room located in the southeast corner of the hotel. Authorities said the blaze was intentionally set using an open flame on available combustible materials.
A joint investigation by county and local law enforcement agencies identified Koeper as the person responsible for setting the fire, officials said.
No injuries were reported in the incident. The extent of damage to the hotel was not immediately released.
Lakewood AlertsA Keansburg man is facing a murder charge in connection with the death of a 32-year-old Seaside Heights woman who was found critically injured and later died following a violent domestic incident.
Ocean County Prosecutor Brad Billhimer announced that Emiliano Davila, 41, was formally charged on Jan. 28 in connection with the death of Mary O’Connor, 32, of Seaside Heights.
Police say O’Connor was brought to Community Medical Center in Toms River on Nov. 3, 2025, suffering from severe head injuries. Officers were called to the hospital after staff reported a woman with blunt force trauma to the head. Investigators said O’Connor had been dropped off by two men who then left the area.
Hospital staff found O’Connor unresponsive with a brain bleed. Authorities said she also showed visible bruising consistent with strangulation.
An investigation by county and local police determined that Davila was one of the individuals who brought O’Connor to the hospital. Investigators also learned that Davila and O’Connor had been dating and that O’Connor had been assaulted the night before at a motel in Seaside Heights where she had been staying.
Davila was taken into custody later that day and initially charged in connection with the assault.
O’Connor died from her injuries on Nov. 5, 2025, two days after being brought to the hospital.
A post-mortem examination later determined that her death was caused by blunt force trauma to the head, which resulted in a subdural hematoma. The manner of death was ruled a homicide.
Following those findings, the case was upgraded to a murder charge. Davila remains in custody as the case proceeds.
Lakewood AlertsA Lakewood man has been sentenced to state prison following two serious motor vehicle incidents in Ocean County, including a high-speed crash that critically injured an off-duty police officer, county prosecutors announced Friday.
Ocean County Prosecutor Brad Billhimer said Edwin Ramirez-Carranza, 21, was sentenced on Friday to five years in New Jersey State Prison in connection with a 2024 eluding case in Lakehurst and a separate 2025 aggravated assault case stemming from a violent crash in Lakewood Township.
Under the sentence, Ramirez-Carranza received five years for eluding police during an Oct. 8, 2024 incident on Route 70 in Lakehurst. Judge Fritch also imposed a six-month suspension of Ramirez-Carranza’s driving privileges related to that offense.
In a separate matter, Judge Fritch sentenced Ramirez-Carranza to an additional five years in state prison for aggravated assault related to a high-speed crash that occurred on April 19, 2025, at the intersection of New Hampshire Avenue and Cedar Bridge Avenue in Lakewood Township. That sentence is subject to New Jersey’s No Early Release Act, requiring Ramirez-Carranza to serve at least 85 percent of the term before becoming eligible for parole.
The two prison sentences will run concurrently.
Ramirez-Carranza pleaded guilty to both charges on Dec. 1, 2025. At sentencing, he also pleaded guilty to underage driving while intoxicated related to the Lakehurst incident. As a result, Judge Fritch imposed an additional 30-day suspension of his driving privileges.
According to prosecutors, Lakehurst Borough police officers observed a three-car crash on Route 70 on Oct. 8, 2024, after which all three vehicles attempted to flee the scene. Officers attempted to stop a Chevrolet Silverado driven by Ramirez-Carranza, but he refused to pull over and fled. His vehicle was eventually disabled and forced to stop in traffic.
Officers reported that Ramirez-Carranza showed signs of intoxication and failed standardized field sobriety tests. Breath testing later revealed a blood alcohol content above the legal limit for an underage driver. He was charged with eluding and driving under the influence, taken into custody, and later released under New Jersey’s bail reform guidelines.
The more serious case stemmed from an early-morning crash on April 19, 2025. Lakewood Township police responded to a report of a crash with serious injuries and found a Honda Civic in the roadway and a Chevrolet Silverado in a drainage basin.
Investigators determined that Ramirez-Carranza, driving the Silverado, ran a red light on New Hampshire Avenue and struck the Honda Civic traveling on Cedar Bridge Avenue. The Civic was driven by an off-duty Lakewood Township police officer who had just completed his shift.
The officer was transported to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune with serious injuries and was later released following treatment. Investigators found that Ramirez-Carranza’s vehicle was traveling at approximately 106 miles per hour seconds before the crash.
Ramirez-Carranza was also taken to Jersey Shore University Medical Center for treatment. He was later charged with aggravated assault and multiple motor vehicle violations. He has been held at the Ocean County Jail since April 20, 2025.
