The Lakewood Police Department is welcoming five new officers following their graduation from Ocean County Police Academy Class #126 on Tuesday, October 6.

The newly graduated officers are I. Grassadonio (#475), D. Ortiz (#479), M. Ormsby (#480), B. Mendez (#482), and J. Figueroa (#483).

The graduation marks an important milestone for the five officers as they begin their law enforcement careers serving and protecting the Lakewood community.

Lakewood Police Chief Gregory H. Meyer congratulated the officers on their achievement and welcomed them to the department.

“Congratulations to our five new officers on this outstanding achievement. We are proud to welcome them to the Lakewood Police Department family and look forward to their service to our community,” Chief Meyer said.

The Lakewood Police Department also expressed pride in the graduates and said it looks forward to the positive impact they will make as they begin their service to the community.

Governor Mikie Sherrill announced Wednesday that a statewide review of voter registration procedures at the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) uncovered approximately 1,090 additional records requiring correction or further investigation, prompting a series of reforms aimed at preventing similar problems in the future.

According to the Governor’s Office, approximately 750 records were affected by a software error between June 2023 and June 2024. Those individuals selected “no” when asked whether they met the age requirements to vote, but their information was nevertheless processed for voter registration. Officials confirmed that all were actually old enough to vote and that no underage individuals voted because of the error.

Of those 750 records, approximately 380 involved individuals who never voted and whose registrations are being deleted. Another 320 individuals had other potentially valid registrations and voted, with their records referred to county election officials for review. Approximately 50 individuals registered solely because of the error and subsequently voted. Their registrations are being deleted, and their cases are being referred to county officials.

The investigation also uncovered approximately 340 potentially improper registrations connected to MVC re-entry events for incarcerated individuals dating back to 2016. Some individuals incorrectly declared themselves eligible to vote while serving sentences for indictable offenses. An additional 60 individuals identified as currently incarcerated are also being referred to county officials for corrective action.

The administration emphasized that neither of the newly identified categories involved noncitizens.

In response, the MVC is implementing a new daily automated auditing system designed to verify voter registration information before it is transferred to election officials. Records containing missing or conflicting information will be flagged for manual review.

Additional reforms include expanded translation services in more than 80 languages, clearer voter eligibility instructions, updated online registration procedures, and additional eligibility confirmation questions at MVC re-entry events. The agency is also transitioning to a new technology vendor.

Sherrill said the investigation remains ongoing and pledged to continue correcting registration errors while protecting eligible voters.

The announcement follows earlier findings involving thousands of voter registrations affected by a separate citizenship-related processing error at the MVC.

A 67-year-old Whiting man has been charged with animal cruelty following an investigation into the death of a dog that police say was left unattended inside a vehicle for an extended period during warm weather.

Manchester Township Police said William Bevan Jr. was charged on October 1 with Third-Degree Animal Cruelty in connection with the September incident.

The investigation began on September 3 at approximately 9:00 PM, when Manchester Township Police officers responded to a home on Norwalk Avenue after receiving a report of a deceased dog in the driveway.

The case was turned over to Detective Adam Guker of the department’s Investigations Bureau, who also serves as a Humane Law Enforcement Officer. Police said detectives conducted multiple interviews, completed additional investigative work and arranged for a necropsy to help determine the circumstances surrounding the dog’s death.

According to police, the investigation determined that the dog had been left unattended inside a vehicle for an extended period under warm weather conditions.

Following the investigation and coordination with the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, Bevan was charged with Third-Degree Animal Cruelty. He was issued a complaint summons and is scheduled to appear in court at a later date.

The charge is an accusation, and Bevan is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

New Jersey lawmakers are considering a significant restructuring of how the state manages energy policy as concerns over electricity prices and future power demand continue to grow, with Ocean County Assemblyman Paul Kanitra among those weighing in during a Statehouse hearing this week.

The Assembly Telecommunications and Utilities Committee heard hours of testimony Monday on proposals that would shift energy planning and development responsibilities away from the state Board of Public Utilities and place them under a separate state entity.

One proposal would establish a Division of Energy Resource and Development within the Department of the Treasury and transfer several energy-related responsibilities currently handled by the BPU. Another measure would create a standalone New Jersey Department of Energy.

Supporters argue that separating energy development from the BPU’s role as a utility regulator could allow the state to focus more aggressively on increasing electricity generation as demand grows.

During the hearing, Assemblyman Paul Kanitra, who represents portions of Ocean County, challenged testimony blaming regional grid operator PJM Interconnection for rising costs and criticized energy policies pursued under the previous state administration.

The proposals remain under consideration as lawmakers debate how New Jersey should increase energy supplies and control costs for ratepayers throughout the state, including Ocean County.

NJ Transit riders, including commuters using the North Jersey Coast Line from Ocean County, should prepare for several weeks of service changes beginning Sunday as Amtrak enters the final phase of transferring rail traffic onto the new Portal North Bridge.

Temporary schedules will take effect Sunday, October 11, and remain in place through Saturday, November 14, as crews transfer the second and final track from the 116-year-old Portal Bridge to the new bridge over the Hackensack River. Regular schedules are expected to resume November 15, subject to completion of safety testing.

The work will temporarily leave trains operating on a single track between Newark and Secaucus, resulting in fewer weekday trains operating into New York Penn Station on both the Northeast Corridor and North Jersey Coast Line.

Ocean County riders will face an additional disruption. NJ Transit says maintenance on the movable Brielle railroad bridge will take place beginning October 11 and continue for approximately two weeks. During that work, buses will replace trains between Bay Head and Manasquan, affecting riders at the southern end of the North Jersey Coast Line.

NJ Transit is advising passengers to check the temporary schedules before traveling and allow additional time. The agency says nearly every rail line will see some combination of changed departure times, cancellations, consolidations or modified stopping patterns during the five-week construction period.

The work is part of the final transition to the new Portal North Bridge, which is intended to replace the aging swing bridge and improve reliability along one of the busiest sections of the Northeast Corridor.

A South Toms River man has pleaded guilty to two robbery charges stemming from armed robberies committed days apart in Toms River and Lacey Township, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced.

Kenneth Grant, 58, pleaded guilty Monday before Superior Court Judge Kenneth T. Palmer in connection with the March 6 robbery of a Wawa on Route 70 in Toms River and the March 9 robbery of a TD Bank in Lacey Township.

Authorities said Grant displayed a firearm and demanded money during both incidents before fleeing with cash.

Investigators identified Grant as the suspect, and he was taken into custody in Newark on March 26 by Lacey Township detectives and members of the U.S. Marshals Service New York-New Jersey Regional Task Force. He has remained lodged in the Ocean County Jail.

At sentencing, scheduled for January 8, 2027, prosecutors will seek two concurrent 15-year New Jersey State Prison terms subject to the No Early Release Act.

Ocean County officials have approved the preservation of nearly 90 acres of land across Eagleswood, Berkeley and Plumsted townships as part of the county’s ongoing effort to protect open space and farmland.

The Ocean County Board of Commissioners approved the acquisitions in September through the county’s Natural Land Trust Fund, following recommendations from the Natural Lands Advisory Committee.

The properties include 78.35 acres in Eagleswood Township, 1.22 acres in Berkeley Township and 9.97 acres in Plumsted Township. The additions build on more than 30,000 acres of open space and 3,600 acres of farmland already preserved through the county program.

In Berkeley, a 1.22-acre parcel located near U.S. Route 9 was donated to the county by a private property owner. Officials said the property sits between preserved lands and contains existing trails that could eventually connect with the previously preserved 746-acre NJ Pulverizing property and a section of the Barnegat Branch Trail.

Ocean County also approved the $850,000 purchase of 78.35 acres along Route 9 in Eagleswood. County officials said the environmentally sensitive property had faced the potential development of nine single-family homes.

In Plumsted, the county will spend $255,000 to purchase the development rights to a 9.97-acre mostly wooded farm on Hopkins Road. The property will remain privately owned and operated as farmland, while Ocean County will hold the easement and development rights to ensure it remains permanently preserved.

The farm is located near approximately 64 acres of county-preserved land known as the Schen property, or Old Hopkins Farm, and other preserved properties in the surrounding area.

The Natural Lands Trust Fund is used to protect forests, wetlands, farmland, water resources and other open spaces throughout Ocean County.

County voters will also be asked in November to consider increasing the Natural Lands Trust Fund tax rate from 1.2 cents to 2.2 cents per $100 of equalized property valuation. Officials say the additional funding would support future land acquisitions, maintenance, cleanup and habitat protection.

A United States Postal Service employee was taken into custody following a law enforcement operation in Jackson Township on Sunday, October 5.

According to the Jackson Township Police Department, its Special Response Team (SRT), working alongside Federal Postal Police, conducted an operation to arrest the USPS employee in connection with an incident that occurred in the township on September 26.

Police said the individual was taken into custody without incident.

The employee was charged with possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, unlawful possession of a weapon, criminal attempt, criminal mischief and harassment.

Authorities have not released additional details regarding the September 26 incident or the circumstances that led to the charges.

The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information may be released as it becomes available.

A Brick Township man accused of helping a wanted murder suspect evade law enforcement has surrendered to police, the latest development in the investigation into the fatal shooting outside a Toms River Wawa that has resulted in charges against five people.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that Ronald Hagan, 50, of Brick Township, surrendered to the Toms River Township Police Department in the presence of his attorney. Hagan had been charged on September 24 with Hindering the Apprehension of Another, and a warrant was issued for his arrest.

The case stems from the September 18 fatal shooting of Bruce Gress, 42, of Toms River, outside the Wawa at Route 37 and Garfield Avenue.

As Lakewood Alerts initially reported, emergency personnel responded to the Wawa following reports of a shooting. Gress was transported to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The following day, Douglas Cobb, 51, of Toms River, was charged with Murder, Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon and Certain Persons Not to Possess a Weapon.

Lakewood Alerts later reported that Cobb had been identified as the murder suspect and was being sought by law enforcement.

As investigators worked to locate Cobb, the case expanded to include several people accused of helping him avoid apprehension.

On September 24, Hagan; Sylvester Green, 43, of Bayville; Cherice Nicholson, 46, of Howell; and Jennifer Rizalvo, 48, of Lakewood, were each charged with Hindering the Apprehension of Another.

As previously reported by Lakewood Alerts, authorities said the four were accused of assisting Cobb in avoiding apprehension, providing false information to law enforcement, or both.

Green and Nicholson were taken into custody and transported to the Ocean County Jail, while Rizalvo was served with the charge on a summons pending court proceedings. Hagan remained wanted until his surrender.

Following his surrender, Hagan was transported to the Ocean County Jail, where he is being held pending a detention hearing.

In total, five people have been charged in connection with the case: Cobb on the murder and weapons charges, and Hagan, Green, Nicholson and Rizalvo on hindering charges connected to the investigation into Cobb’s whereabouts.

The charges are accusations, and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

A bomb threat prompted a police response Monday at Stamford Meadows Shul, located at 12 Golders Green Road in Lakewood.

Sources tell Lakewood Alerts that a man called the Lakewood Police Department claiming that he had planted a bomb inside the shul. Officers responded to the location and investigated the threat as a precaution.

Authorities later gave the all-clear, and the scene was cleared after no threat was found.

No injuries were reported.

The Lakewood Fire Department Hazmat Unit responded to Jackson Township on mutual aid last week following a fire involving hazardous chemicals.

Lakewood’s Hazmat team worked alongside the Berkeley Township Hazmat Unit and local emergency responders to assess the scene, identify potential hazards and assist with mitigation efforts.

Toms River Police Lieutenant Ron Sermarini has retired following 25 years of dedicated service to the Toms River Police Department, concluding a distinguished law enforcement career marked by leadership, community involvement and service to fellow officers.

Sermarini, a lifelong Toms River resident, began his law enforcement career after graduating from the Ocean County Police Academy as a member of Class 76 in 2001. He joined the Toms River Police Department as a sworn officer that same year, fulfilling the opportunity to serve the community where he was born and raised.

Before entering law enforcement, Sermarini graduated from Toms River High School North, where he was a standout football and basketball player. As the Mariners’ starting quarterback, he helped lead the football team to a state championship in 1994. He later continued his football and academic career at McDaniel College, formerly Western Maryland College, in Westminster, Maryland, where he played quarterback and earned his bachelor’s degree.

Sermarini spent the first decade of his police career assigned to patrol, where he developed a reputation for proactive policing and served as a Field Training Officer for officers who would later become department leaders.

Throughout his career, he was heavily involved in community and charitable initiatives, including Vest-A-Cop, the Pros vs. Heroes flag football game, the TRPD Bicycle Rodeo, Toy Run Foundation motorcycle events and National Night Out. He also mentored young people interested in law enforcement through the Public Safety Cadet Program and served as a member of the department’s Motorcycle Unit, later supervising both programs.

In August 2012, Sermarini was promoted to Sergeant. During nearly a decade in that rank, he supervised several patrol squads before moving into administrative leadership roles, including Training Supervisor for the Professional Standards Unit and later Supervisor of the Community Affairs Division.

While overseeing Community Affairs, Sermarini supervised the department’s School Resource Officers and Class III Officers and was responsible for security at Town Hall and local parks.

He was promoted to Lieutenant in August 2021 and became the Midnight Shift Commander, overseeing five sergeants and 31 full-time police officers. He also served as a Command Staff Evaluator for promotional candidates.

During the final two years of his career, Sermarini returned to the Community Affairs Division, where he led outreach programs and served as the department’s public information officer and social media coordinator. His responsibilities also included oversight of department communications, jail operations, school safety programs and budget matters.

Sermarini also played a significant role representing fellow officers. He was elected Vice President of Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 156 in 2016 and became President in 2019. The organization transitioned to PBA Local 137A in 2025. During his tenure, Sermarini represented more than 30 supervisory officers and successfully negotiated two collective bargaining agreements. He remained in the leadership role until March 2026.

Toms River PBA Local 137 and 137A congratulated Lieutenant Sermarini on his retirement, saying he will be greatly missed by members of both organizations and wishing him well in the next chapter of his life.

The Lakewood Police Department is celebrating the retirement of Captain Gregory Staffordsmith #264 following more than 25 years of dedicated service to the department and the Lakewood community.

Born and raised in Lakewood, Staffordsmith has spent much of his life serving the community he calls home. He attended Holy Family Elementary School in Lakewood and began his public service career well before joining the police department.

In 1991, Staffordsmith became a volunteer firefighter with Lakewood Township and was named a part-time paid firefighter in 1994. The following year, he took a civilian firefighter position at the Military Ocean Terminal in Bayonne. In 1999, he joined the City of Bayonne Fire Department, serving there until beginning his career with the Lakewood Police Department in 2000 after graduating from Ocean County Police Academy Class #75.

During his more than 25 years with Lakewood Police, Staffordsmith rose to the rank of captain and served as Investigations Commander. In that role, he helped oversee investigations, Internal Affairs, accreditation, hiring and other key department functions.

Lakewood Police Chief Gregory H. Meyer praised Staffordsmith for his decades of public service, leadership and commitment to the community.

“Greg, it has been a pleasure and a privilege to work alongside you,” Meyer said. “Your more than 25 years with the Lakewood Police Department, following your years of service as a firefighter, reflect a lifetime of commitment to helping others.”

Meyer also thanked Staffordsmith for his friendship and leadership, wishing him happiness, good health and many enjoyable years with his family in retirement.

The Lakewood Police Department thanked Staffordsmith for his lifetime of public service and the lasting impact he has made on both the department and the community.

Less than two months after Lakewood held its annual Gary Letizia Memorial Blood Drive, local EMS agencies are organizing another blood drive on Monday, October 5, in response to a critical shortage affecting the region’s blood supply.

Officials say the recent nor’easter forced the cancellation of multiple blood drives and caused a sharp decline in donations, leaving available supplies below current hospital demand.

New Jersey Blood Services reached out to Lakewood EMS Director Crystal Van de Zilver for assistance, prompting Lakewood EMS and Lakewood First Aid to organize the additional drive on short notice.

“Saving lives comes in many forms, and one simple blood donation can save as many as three lives,” Van de Zilver said, encouraging residents to participate.

The drive will be held at Lakewood EMS Headquarters, 1555 Pine Street, from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Healthy donors age 18 and older are encouraged to participate, and all blood types are needed.

Each donor will receive a “Lifesaver” T-shirt while supplies last.

The blood drive is part of a statewide initiative led by Dr. Matt Letizia, medical director for Lakewood EMS and Lakewood First Aid, in memory of his late father, Gary Letizia, who benefited from blood donations during the final year of his life.

Governor Mikie Sherrill on Tuesday announced a sweeping new housing affordability plan aimed at accelerating construction, reducing permitting delays and expanding housing opportunities across New Jersey.

Speaking at the 2026 Governor’s Conference on Housing and Economic Development in Atlantic City, Sherrill announced that the state plans to double its previously planned housing development on state-owned land from 20,000 to 40,000 homes. The administration also plans to establish clearer deadlines for permit applications and launch a new tax credit auction expected to generate tens of millions of dollars for affordable housing.

The plan follows Executive Order No. 17, which Sherrill signed in April to create a Housing Governing Council and direct state agencies to review state-owned land, regulations and development procedures for ways to accelerate housing production.

According to the Governor’s Office, the council concluded that New Jersey needs approximately 350,000 additional homes to keep pace with population and economic growth and address housing affordability.

The administration’s five-part strategy focuses on increasing housing supply, speeding up approvals, working with municipalities to develop and preserve housing, expanding access to housing opportunities and lowering costs for renters and homeowners.

State officials said efforts already underway include transit-oriented housing projects in Red Bank, Bayonne and Linden; a permitting dashboard covering projects representing more than 3,700 potential homes; expanded assistance for municipalities; and additional efforts aimed at preserving affordable housing and encouraging redevelopment of underused properties.

Sherrill previously announced plans for housing development on state-owned and transit-related property, including projects in Bayonne and Linden.

The broader strategy also calls for redevelopment of vacant office buildings and aging shopping centers, additional housing near transportation and employment centers, expanded homeownership opportunities and preservation of existing affordable housing.

The Ocean County Department of Consumer Affairs announced Tuesday that it secured a $17,500 settlement with a local gas station owner following an investigation into violations and deceptive business practices at three Ocean County gas stations.

County officials said the investigation, conducted jointly by the Ocean County Division of Weights & Measures and the Office of Consumer Protection, began after complaints were flagged involving two Route 37 gas stations in Toms River. A separate complaint involving a Lakehurst location was brought forward by the Lakehurst Police Department.

The stations involved are Delta at 245 Route 37 in Toms River, Delta/G&R LLC at 200 Route 37 in Lakehurst, and Sunoco at 644 Route 37 West in Toms River.

Under a binding consent agreement, owner Rajinder Chandi will pay a $17,500 penalty and must ensure that digital gas pump displays accurately match the price-per-gallon charged to customers.

Chandi must also use only vendors certified by the New Jersey State Office of Weights & Measures for future pump repairs, submit repair documentation to county officials within 10 days, attend a verification meeting to demonstrate that outstanding violations have been corrected, and comply with all applicable consumer protection and weights and measures laws.

Ocean County Commissioner Robert S. Arace said the county remains committed to protecting residents and visitors from deceptive practices at the gas pump.

Two New York men have been indicted in connection with a March incident in South Toms River in which Molotov cocktails were thrown at a vehicle and toward a residence, according to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that Tashaun Normand, 42, of the Bronx, and Tahkem Boynton, 28, of Fresh Meadows, were each indicted on two counts of Aggravated Arson, Conspiracy to Commit Aggravated Arson, and two counts of Unlawful Possession of a Prohibited Weapon.

The charges stem from a March 23 incident at approximately 3:15 p.m. on Belmont Drive. South Toms River Police and the Manitou Park Fire Company responded to a reported vehicle fire and found flames inside a 2010 GMC Terrain, along with a separate fire in a grassy area near the residence.

Investigators also recovered a broken glass bottle and another bottle containing liquid with a torn rag placed inside, which authorities said was consistent with a Molotov cocktail.

An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Arson Squad and several local agencies determined that the vehicle fire originated at the front windshield and was intentionally set. Prosecutors say Normand threw the Molotov cocktails at the vehicle and in the direction of the residence.

Normand was arrested by the Tennessee Highway Patrol on March 30 and was extradited to New Jersey on July 19. He remains lodged in the Ocean County Jail.

Investigators later determined that Boynton conspired with Normand and was present at the scene, prosecutors said. Boynton is currently being held at the Otis Bantum Correctional Facility in New York on an unrelated matter.

The charges are accusations, and both defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Construction is moving full speed ahead on a new state-of-the-art Mikvah in Jackson, with organizers anticipating that the facility will begin operations in early 2027, B’ezras Hashem.

Just one year ago, the property was an empty plot of land. Today, the full structure is standing, and construction crews are working toward completing the approximately $10 million project within the coming months.

The centrally located Mikvah, situated just minutes from Lakewood and Howell, is being designed to accommodate thousands of families throughout the growing Jackson and surrounding communities. The facility will also include a much-needed Keilim Mikvah.

Askonim involved in the project say nearly 75% of the estimated $10 million cost has already been raised as construction continues toward completion.

A lucky New Jersey Lottery player scored a $1 million prize after purchasing a winning scratch-off ticket at a Wawa in Brick.

According to New Jersey Lottery officials, the winning 100X scratch-off ticket was sold on September 22 at the Wawa located at 1902 Route 88. The game costs $20 per ticket and offers prizes ranging from free tickets up to the $1 million top prize.

The Brick ticket was the second of three $1 million top-prize tickets available in the game to be claimed. Nearly 7.4 million tickets were printed for the 100X game.

Hundreds of Yeshiva Bochurim gathered at the Fountain Ballroom in Lakewood Monday evening, for a massive Simchas Bais Hashoeva, attended by BMG Roshei Yeshiva and prominent Rabbonim, with music, dancing and divrei chizuk throughout the evening.

Lakewood Alerts regrets to inform you of the Petira of Reb Raphael Yitzchak Isaac Shain Z”L, a beloved Rebbe at Adelphia Yeshiva.

The Levaya will take place Monday, the first day of Chol Hamoed Sukkos, at 2:15 PM at the Yoshon (Bendheim) Bais Medrash of Beth Medrash Govoha, 617 7th Street in Lakewood.

Yehi Zichro Baruch.

New Jersey drivers continue to feel the pain at the pump, with gas prices on track to set a new September record.

According to AAA, the statewide average for regular gasoline stood at $4.39 per gallon on Friday, just below the national average of $4.49. The current price is well above New Jersey’s previous September monthly record of $3.83 per gallon, set in 2023.

Diesel prices are also hovering near record levels, sitting just three cents below a record high reached earlier in the week.

AAA says restricted oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz are among the factors contributing to the elevated prices, keeping pressure on motorists across New Jersey, including drivers in the Lakewood area.

Former New Jersey Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell is speaking publicly following his resignation, saying he stepped down because he did not want the controversy surrounding an investigation into his conduct to become a distraction for Gov. Mikie Sherrill’s administration.

Caldwell disputed the investigation and its conclusions, calling the report “poorly done.” He said his decision to resign was intended to allow the administration to move forward without the ongoing controversy.

Caldwell resigned Friday after Sherrill called for his resignation following the release of an independent investigation that found repeated violations of state policy. Sherrill later confirmed that she had accepted his resignation.

Caldwell and his attorney have challenged the investigation and maintain that its conclusions were not supported by the evidence.

Four people, including a Lakewood woman, have been charged with hindering the apprehension of a Toms River man wanted in connection with a murder earlier this month, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced.

Ronald Hagan, 50, of Brick Township; Sylvester Green, 43, of Bayville; Cherice Nicholson, 46, of Howell; and Jennifer Rizalvo, 48, of Lakewood, were each charged with Hindering the Apprehension of Another in connection with the search for Douglas Cobb, 51, of Toms River.

Cobb is charged with the murder of Bruce Gress, 42, of Toms River, who was killed on September 18 in Toms River.

During the investigation into Cobb’s whereabouts, detectives determined that Hagan, Green, Nicholson and Rizalvo each assisted Cobb in avoiding apprehension and/or provided false information to law enforcement, according to the Prosecutor’s Office.

Hagan remains a fugitive, and a warrant has been issued for his arrest. His name has been entered into the National Crime Information Center database.

Green and Nicholson were taken into custody on September 24 and transported to the Ocean County Jail, where they remain pending detention hearings. Rizalvo was served with the charge on a summons and is expected to appear in Ocean County Superior Court.

“These arrests send a powerful message that anyone who intentionally aids Douglas Cobb evade law enforcement will be held accountable and face consequences for their unlawful actions,” Prosecutor Billhimer said. “We are working round-the-clock to apprehend Cobb so that he may be brought to justice for the killing of Bruce Gress.”

The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office said a recently released image of Cobb was taken from police body-worn camera footage recorded in June.

The investigation involves the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Toms River Township Police Department, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office and the United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force.

The charges against the four defendants are accusations, and they are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Dale G. Caldwell has resigned from office following an independent investigation that found he engaged in serious, repeated violations of state policy, including harassment and ethics violations.

Governor Mikie Sherrill confirmed the resignation during a press conference Friday afternoon, saying Caldwell submitted his resignation to her and that she accepted it.

The resignation comes one day after Sherrill publicly called on Caldwell to step down and gave him until Friday to do so.

The 61-page investigative report substantiated a harassment finding involving an inappropriate remark to a female staffer, as well as ethics violations involving personal guests attending ticketed events without payment or reimbursement and Caldwell advocating for a promotion for a state employee with whom he had a romantic relationship without disclosing that relationship. Caldwell denied wrongdoing, and his attorneys disputed the investigation’s findings.

Under the New Jersey Constitution, Sherrill now has 45 days from Caldwell’s resignation to appoint his replacement as lieutenant governor. Caldwell had also been serving as New Jersey Secretary of State.

Governor Mikie Sherrill has announced a State of Emergency for eight New Jersey counties, including Ocean County, as a nor’easter is expected to bring strong winds, heavy rain, coastal flooding and hazardous conditions beginning tonight and continuing through Sunday.

The State of Emergency takes effect at 5:00 p.m. Friday and covers Ocean, Monmouth, Middlesex, Burlington, Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland and Salem counties. The declaration activates the State Emergency Operations Center and allows state agencies and county emergency management officials to coordinate resources and respond to storm-related emergencies.

The declaration comes as Sukkos begins tonight and follows warnings issued earlier by Lakewood Township officials urging residents to properly secure Sukkahs, trash cans and other loose outdoor items ahead of the expected high winds and rain.

Governor Sherrill urged residents to charge their phones, secure outdoor objects, have food and water available and avoid unnecessary travel during dangerous conditions. Motorists are also being warned never to attempt to drive through flooded roadways.

The most severe conditions are expected to begin tonight and continue through Sunday, with damaging winds, heavy rain, significant coastal flooding and beach erosion among the primary concerns.

A Maine man has been indicted on three counts of attempted murder and multiple other charges stemming from an April incident in South Toms River that ended with police shooting and wounding him.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that a Grand Jury indicted 37-year-old Brian Lanzim, of Bangor, Maine, on September 23 on three counts of Attempted Murder, two counts each of Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, as well as Home Invasion Burglary, Unlawful Use of Body Armor and two counts of Terroristic Threats.

Authorities say South Toms River Police responded to a residence on Dover Road on April 29 after receiving information that Lanzim had made threats against people living at the home and was traveling from Maine while armed.

While officers were in the area, prosecutors say Lanzim drove his vehicle across the front lawn toward an officer, forcing the officer to take cover behind a fence. Lanzim then allegedly exited the vehicle and attempted to enter a locked door of the residence.

Police confronted Lanzim, who authorities say was wearing a bullet-resistant vest and carrying a handgun. After he allegedly failed to comply with repeated commands, a South Toms River officer fired his service weapon, hitting Lanzim in the pelvis and hand.

Officers disarmed Lanzim, provided medical aid and had him transported to Jersey Shore University Medical Center for treatment. Investigators later reported finding a loaded rifle and large-capacity ammunition magazines inside his vehicle.

Following his release from the hospital, Lanzim was taken to the Ocean County Jail, where he has remained since May 4.

The case was investigated by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, South Toms River Police Department and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office. The charges are accusations, and Lanzim is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

With Sukkos beginning tonight, Lakewood Township officials are urging residents to take precautions as strong winds and periods of rain are expected to impact the area over Yom Tov.

The Lakewood Department of Public Works and Lakewood Police Department are asking residents to make sure Sukkahs, trash cans and other outdoor items are properly secured before the stormy conditions arrive. Officials warned that unsecured objects could be blown into roadways or cause property damage or injuries.

Residents celebrating Sukkos are specifically being urged to check that Sukkah walls, schach and other components are safely secured before Yom Tov begins.

The Lakewood area is expected to see mostly cloudy and windy conditions today, with temperatures around 70 degrees. Winds are expected to increase as Sukkos begins tonight, with showers possible. Shabbos is expected to bring periods of rain and strong winds, with gusts potentially exceeding 40 mph, while additional rain is expected into Sunday. A developing coastal storm could produce even stronger gusts in portions of the Jersey Shore region.

Lakewood Township wished residents a happy and safe weekend and holiday season while encouraging everyone to secure outdoor items before the weather deteriorates.

Lakewood Alerts regrets to inform you of the Petira of Rebbetzin Devorah Marcus A”H, who was Niftar on Thursday.

Rebbetzin Marcus was the wife of Rav Mordechai Marcus ZT”L, who served as Rav of the Lakewood Minyan in Flatbush.

The Levaya will take place Thursday night at 10:15 p.m. at the Lakewood Chapel, 613 Ramsey Avenue in Lakewood.

Baruch Dayan Ha’emes….

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill on Thursday called on Lieutenant Governor Dale Caldwell to resign after an independent investigation found what the Governor described as serious and repeated violations of state policy.

The development comes after Lakewood Alerts previously reported that Caldwell was under investigation over allegations of inappropriate conduct.

Sherrill said Caldwell has until Friday to resign, saying the conduct detailed in the investigation failed to meet the ethical standards of her administration. The Governor said the investigation was initiated by the administration’s Chief Ethics Officer and conducted by a former New Jersey Attorney General.

Caldwell has disputed the findings of the investigation.

Eight new officers were officially sworn in as members of the Toms River Police Department during Wednesday night’s Township Council meeting.

Toms River PBA Local 137 welcomed the new officers to its ranks, wishing them long and successful careers serving the community.

“We are looking forward to working with them,” the PBA said in a statement following the ceremony.

A structure fire broke out in Lakewood on Wednesday afternoon at approximately 5:45 p.m. near 7th Street and Clifton Avenue, causing significant damage.

The Lakewood Fire Department quickly responded to the scene and worked to bring the fire under control, helping prevent the flames from causing further damage.

No injuries were reported.

An MVA involving an overturned vehicle occurred Wednesday at approximately 2:15 p.m. on Erica Road near New Hampshire Avenue.

Emergency personnel responded to the scene, where one vehicle was found overturned.

Bechasdei Hashem, no serious injuries were reported.

Following a deadly crash at a Lavallette restaurant over the weekend, Ocean County State Senator Jim Holzapfel announced Tuesday that he plans to introduce legislation requiring additional safety protections for outdoor dining areas located directly alongside active roadways.

Holzapfel, who represents New Jersey’s 10th Legislative District, which includes portions of Ocean and Monmouth counties, said the proposed legislation would require restaurants with roadside outdoor dining to install protective bollards or other approved barriers designed to shield customers from vehicles.

“Outdoor dining is a great part of what makes our shore communities special, but we have to make sure it’s safe,” Holzapfel said, adding that dining areas immediately adjacent to active roads should have basic protective barriers separating customers from traffic.

The proposal comes days after Lakewood Alerts reported on the deadly crash in Lavallette, where a 93-year-old driver crashed into the outdoor dining area of Meg’s Grill on Route 35 North on Saturday morning.

Police said the driver was attempting to park when she apparently pressed the accelerator instead of the brake, sending the vehicle through the outdoor dining area and into the restaurant. A 56-year-old Toms River woman was killed and seven other patrons were injured.

Holzapfel said the Lavallette tragedy highlights the need for physical protections between traffic and customers seated in roadside dining areas. His office said he intends to formally introduce the legislation in the New Jersey Senate.

A developing coastal storm and days of persistent northeast winds are raising concerns for significant coastal flooding, strong winds and beach erosion along the Jersey Shore through the end of the week.

The National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Warning for Ocean County and portions of South Jersey from Wednesday afternoon through early Friday. Forecasters say one to two feet of water above ground level could inundate low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways.

Widespread roadway flooding is possible in coastal and bayside communities, with some roads potentially becoming impassable during high tide. Vulnerable structures could also see some damage.

Strong onshore winds are expected to continue through at least Thursday, pushing additional ocean water toward the coast and producing rough surf and beach erosion.

Forecasters are also monitoring a developing nor’easter that could impact the region later this week and into the weekend. The storm’s exact track remains uncertain, but coastal flooding, rough surf and gusty winds are expected to remain concerns regardless of its final path.

Residents in flood-prone areas are urged to monitor forecasts and avoid driving through flooded roadways.

The Lakewood Dalet Minim Shuk Is Now Open!

The BMG parking lot on 9th Street has once again transformed into Lakewood’s central Dalet Minim Shuk. Hundreds of tables are filled with beautiful esrogim, lulavim, hadasim and aravos, together with everything needed for Yom Tov.

Families from Lakewood and across the tri-state area come to shop, compare and select mehudar Dalet Minim—all in one convenient location.

But the Shuk is more than a marketplace. It’s the sights, the sounds, the lively aisles and the unmistakable ruach of Erev Yom Tov.

Bring the family and experience the Shuk for yourself. It’s not just shopping—it has become part of the Yom Tov experience.

Now open daily through Erev Sukkos,

BMG Parking Lot — 299 9th Street, Lakewood, NJ

For information, call or text 732-703-7760. or email [email protected].

New Jersey American Water’s Lead Service Line Replacement Program is continuing in Lakewood this week, with authorized crews currently canvassing homes in census tracts 7155.01, 7155.02 and 7155.03, including areas in and around Central Avenue and Hope Chapel Road.

The canvassing is being conducted by CDM Smith, a qualified contractor for New Jersey American Water, as part of the utility’s ongoing effort to identify and replace lead and galvanized steel service lines.

The program follows a 2021 New Jersey law requiring water providers to identify and replace lead and galvanized steel service lines by 2031. Service lines are the pipes connecting water mains in the street to individual homes and buildings and include both utility-owned and property-owner portions.

Residents can identify their own service line and submit photos to New Jersey American Water or schedule a free in-person inspection. Inspections generally take about 15 minutes.

Authorized canvassers may also visit designated properties directly. Crews will wear clearly marked high-visibility vests displaying New Jersey American Water and CDM Smith logos and will carry official identification. Residents should be aware that canvassers will never request sensitive personal or financial information or documentation.

All canvassing, inspections and replacement work are being performed by New Jersey American Water or its authorized contractors, not Lakewood Township or another government agency. The effort is being coordinated with Lakewood Township for public awareness and safety.

Residents may continue using their water normally. According to New Jersey American Water, its water continues to meet state and federal water-quality standards, including standards for lead.

Additional information, including an interactive service-line inventory map and tools for identifying service-line materials, is available through New Jersey American Water’s Lead Service Line Replacement Program. Residents with additional questions can contact the utility’s Lead Team at [email protected] or CDM Smith at 732-590-4700.

Lakewood Police have released additional details regarding a shots-fired incident that Lakewood Alerts first reported late last night, when police were searching for a white sedan believed to be connected to shootings in both Lakewood and Howell.

According to police, officers responded at approximately 11:00 p.m. Monday to a residence on Massachusetts Avenue after receiving a report of gunfire on Sunset Road.

The reporting party told police he was driving behind a white four-door sedan when an occupant fired a single round toward his vehicle. Police said the sedan was believed to have been stolen in Lakewood earlier that evening.

A short time later, police received information that a vehicle matching the same description was reportedly involved in another shots-fired incident in Howell.

Lakewood Alerts reported on the developing incident late Monday night as police searched the Howell Lanes Pond area for the suspect vehicle.

The investigation remains active. Anyone who witnessed either incident or has information regarding the white sedan is asked to contact the Lakewood Police Department at 732-363-0200.

New Jersey officials have issued a $1.07 million fine against a data center in Vineland for violations of the state’s Air Pollution Control Act, marking what the Sherrill administration says is the largest enforcement action against a data center in state history.

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection issued the penalty against Data One following a July 29 inspection of its Vineland facility. According to the state, inspectors found 62 large natural-gas generators that had been installed and were operating without required DEP permits.

Governor Mikie Sherrill said the enforcement action reflects her administration’s push to hold data centers accountable for their environmental and energy impacts.

“We are putting power in the hands of the people and ensuring this industry works for us, on our terms – not theirs,” Sherrill said, adding that data centers will be expected to pay their share of energy costs, account for water and energy use, protect the environment and invest in local communities.

The DEP issued an Administrative Order and Notice of Civil Administrative Penalty Assessment against the company over the violations.

Police are searching the Howell Lanes Pond area following reports of a drive-by shooting late Monday night.

Initial reports indicate that the victims called 911 from Lakewood following the incident. Police are currently combing the area, and a white Mercedes is reportedly being sought as the suspect vehicle.

Lakewood Alerts will provide additional information as it becomes available.

Lakewood Alerts regrets to inform you of the Petira of Rabbi Yeruchem Septimus Z”L, who served for many years as an Halacha teacher at Bais Kayla in Lakewood.

Rabbi Septimus Z”L was Niftar on Motzei Yom Kippur following a prolonged illness. He was 79 years old.

The Leavya will take place Tuesday morning at 10:30AM at the Lakewood Chapel

Baruch Dayan HaEmes……

A Brick Township man has been charged following an investigation into a series of vehicle burglaries targeting work vehicles in Brick and Point Pleasant Borough.

Brick Township Police said officers began investigating several burglaries reported on the north side of the township during September, with approximately $15,000 worth of tools, equipment and other property reported stolen.

Detectives identified the suspect as 35-year-old Anthony S. Cerchio of Brick. Police obtained a court-authorized search warrant for his residence and vehicle, which was executed by members of the Patrol Division, Street Crimes Unit and Detective Bureau.

During the search, investigators recovered approximately $15,000 worth of tools and other property believed to have been taken during the burglaries.

Cerchio was charged with three counts of burglary, three counts of theft, receiving stolen property and fencing. He was released on a summons pending further court proceedings.

Police said the investigation also uncovered evidence connecting Cerchio to multiple vehicle burglaries in Point Pleasant Borough, where additional stolen property was recovered. Point Pleasant Borough Police filed separate charges in connection with incidents in that municipality.

The charges are accusations, and Cerchio is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

An 86-year-old Manchester man was rescued by police early Sunday morning after his vehicle plunged into a water hazard near a golf course and began sinking.

Manchester Township Police said officers responded at approximately 4:52 a.m. to Renaissance at Manchester, near Halstead Drive and Esplanade Drive, following reports of a vehicle slowly becoming submerged in a water hazard.

When officers arrived, they found George Migner, 86, calling for help as his black 2024 Nissan Altima continued to sink. Officer Sean Rembach entered the water and swam toward the vehicle, while Officer Donald Miller used a water rescue throw bag to help guide Migner safely out of the vehicle and back to shore.

The vehicle eventually became completely submerged after Migner was rescued. Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Company and the Whiting Fire Water Rescue and Recovery Team responded to assist.

Migner told police he had been attempting to perform a K-turn when he accidentally pressed the accelerator instead of the brake while putting the vehicle in reverse, sending the car over an embankment and into the water.

Manchester EMS treated and evaluated Migner at the scene for a minor injury.

Manchester Township Police thanked the responding officers, Manchester EMS, Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Company, and the Whiting Fire Water Rescue and Recovery Team for their coordinated response.

Jackson Township Police confirmed that reports of a student with a firearm at Jackson Township High School’s pep rally on Friday were unfounded, and that students were never in danger.

According to police, concern spread after students in a section of the bleachers overheard a statement claiming that a student had a firearm. A Jackson Township Police School Resource Officer who was nearby immediately responded, assisted by district security and school administrators.

Police ultimately confirmed that there was no firearm and said students were not in danger at any point during the incident.

The school’s Friday night football game proceeded as scheduled.

A 56-year-old Toms River woman was killed and seven others were injured Saturday morning after a 93-year-old driver crashed into the outdoor dining area of Meg’s Grill in Lavallette.

The crash occurred at approximately 11:12 a.m. at the restaurant, located at 1401 Grand Central Avenue along Route 35 North.

According to the Lavallette Police Department, the 93-year-old Lavallette woman was attempting to park a 2014 Buick Encore in front of the restaurant when she apparently pressed the accelerator instead of the brake. The vehicle surged forward, plowing through the outdoor dining area before crashing into the building.

Seven restaurant patrons were injured and transported to area hospitals with various injuries. A 56-year-old Toms River woman suffered fatal injuries.

The driver suffered minor injuries.

Lavallette Police, fire and first aid personnel responded to the scene, along with the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, Toms River Police and EMS, Ocean Beach Fire Department, Seaside Heights Police and Fire Departments, and Tri-Boro EMS.

A Toms River man has been charged with murder in connection with the fatal shooting outside a Wawa on Friday morning and remains at large, authorities announced Saturday.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that Douglas Cobb, 51, of Toms River, has been charged with Murder, Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, and being a Certain Person Not to Possess a Weapon in connection with the death of Bruce Gress, 42, of Toms River.

As Lakewood Alerts reported Friday, the shooting occurred at approximately 7:20 a.m. at the Wawa located at the corner of Route 37 and Garfield Avenue in Toms River.

Toms River Township Police officers responding to the scene found Gress suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. Emergency medical personnel transported him to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, where he was pronounced dead.

Following an extensive investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Toms River Township Police Department Detective Bureau, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, investigators identified Cobb as the person they say was responsible for the shooting.

Cobb has not been taken into custody and is considered a fugitive. Authorities have issued a warrant for his arrest and entered his name into the National Crime Information Center database.

According to prosecutors, Cobb is also known as Douglas Green and goes by the nickname “Bootknock.” He was last seen driving a black 2016 Acura MDX with New Jersey license plate T93YJL.

“Our focus now is to locate Douglas Cobb and bring him into custody,” Billhimer said, urging anyone who knows Cobb to advise him to surrender peacefully.

Anyone with credible information regarding Cobb’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit at 732-929-2027 or the Toms River Township Police Department at 732-349-0150.

The investigation involved numerous agencies, including the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, Toms River Police Department, Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, South Toms River Police Department, Freehold Borough Police Department, Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office, and U.S. Marshals Service.

The charges are accusations, and Cobb is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

The Trump administration has dropped its latest appeal seeking to block federal funding for the $16 billion Gateway Tunnel Project connecting New Jersey and New York, ending its challenge to a June federal court ruling that found the withholding of funds violated the law.

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill welcomed the development Friday, calling it “a big victory for millions of New Jersey commuters” and pointing to the nearly 100,000 jobs the state says the project will create.

“The Trump Administration has tried, over and over again, to illegally stop the funding for the nation’s most urgent infrastructure project,” Sherrill said. “We took them to court and we won for New Jerseyans, five times. I won’t stop fighting until this project is built.”

The Gateway project is designed to construct a new rail tunnel beneath the Hudson River and rehabilitate the existing century-old North River Tunnel used by trains traveling between New Jersey and New York City.

Authorities have confirmed that the shooting Friday morning at the Wawa at Route 37 and Garfield Avenue in Toms River was fatal.

The shooting occurred at approximately 7:20 a.m. in the parking lot of the convenience store.

The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Toms River Township Police Department and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit are investigating.

Officials said the investigation remains active and ongoing, and additional information will be released as it becomes available.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit at 732-929-2027 or Toms River Township Police at 732-349-0150.

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ORIGINAL ARTICLE: 

A shooting is under investigation Friday morning at the Wawa on Route 37 near Garfield Avenue in Toms River.

One person was reported shot and was being airlifted to a hospital for treatment. Authorities urged motorists and residents to avoid the area due to ongoing police activity.

Crime scene tape was placed around the gas pump area, with Toms River Police, the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office responding to the scene.

The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under investigation. Additional details are expected to be released as the investigation continues.

The N’shei Adirei HaTorah has released the feature video presentation shown during Wednesday night’s massive Evening of Inspiration, which drew more than 15,000 women in person and was viewed at approximately 100 satellite locations around the world.

The special presentation was one of the highlights of the evening, which brought together thousands for a night dedicated to inspiration, chizuk, and recognition of the vital role of the N’shei Chayil who stand behind and support Torah learning.

The full feature presentation can be viewed below.

The New Jersey Department of Health announced Thursday that approximately $90 million in medical debt is being eliminated for nearly 20,000 residents across the state, marking the final round of a medical debt relief program launched in 2023.

The relief is being provided through a partnership between the state’s Office of Healthcare Affordability and Transparency and the nonprofit Undue Medical Debt. Since the program began, New Jersey says more than $1.6 billion in medical debt has been eliminated for nearly 900,000 residents.

Residents included in the latest round do not need to apply or take any action. Those receiving relief are being notified by letters from Undue Medical Debt that began arriving in mailboxes this week.

To qualify, residents had to either have household income at or below 400% of the federal poverty level or have medical debt totaling at least 5% of their annual income. The debt was purchased from participating healthcare providers and other debt holders and then eliminated.

The program was funded through an initial state investment along with federal American Rescue Plan funds. State officials said the available funding has now been fully spent, bringing the debt elimination program to an end.

New Jersey Health Commissioner Dr. Raynard Washington said the state will continue working on broader efforts aimed at reducing healthcare costs and improving access to routine and preventive care.

State health officials said nearly one in seven New Jersey residents in 2024 lived in households where out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, including insurance premiums, exceeded 10% of annual income.

Two New Jersey municipal water systems were targeted in cyberattacks as part of a broader campaign against water infrastructure across the United States, prompting a response from state and federal cybersecurity officials.

The attacks targeted internet-connected industrial control systems used to remotely monitor and operate equipment such as pumps and valves. The affected utilities temporarily lost the ability to remotely monitor or control portions of their systems and switched to manual operations.

Officials said there was no disruption to water service and the safety of the drinking water was not compromised. Both systems were subsequently secured with strengthened access controls.

The incidents were later identified as affecting water facilities in Cape May and Woodbine, with the attacks occurring on July 27.

The FBI and other federal agencies have been investigating the broader campaign. Iranian-linked actors have been considered a possible source of the attacks, though federal authorities have not publicly made a definitive attribution.

U.S. Under Secretary of Education Nicholas Kent visited Beth Medrash Govoha in Lakewood today.

A Philadelphia man already charged with Assault by Auto following a serious head-on crash in Lacey Township is now facing multiple weapons charges after investigators allegedly recovered two loaded handguns and illegal ammunition from his vehicle.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that Jared Beswick, 27, of Philadelphia, was additionally charged with two counts of Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, three counts of Possession of a High-Capacity Ammunition Magazine, and Possession of Hollow Point Ammunition.

The charges stem from a September 13 crash on Route 539 near mile marker 16.5. Authorities say Beswick was driving a Ford Explorer northbound when the vehicle entered the southbound lane and collided head-on with a Toyota RAV4.

The driver of the Toyota and a passenger in Beswick’s vehicle were transported to Jersey Shore University Medical Center, where both were listed in serious but stable condition.

Investigators said Beswick showed signs of impairment, while officers observed open alcohol containers and pre-rolled marijuana cigarettes inside the vehicle. A court-authorized blood draw was obtained, and Beswick was initially charged with two counts of Assault by Auto.

On September 16, detectives executed a search warrant on the Ford Explorer and allegedly recovered two loaded handguns, three high-capacity ammunition magazines, and hollow point ammunition.

Beswick was served with the additional charges at the hospital. Upon his release, he is expected to be transported to the Ocean County Jail pending a detention hearing.

The crash remains under investigation, and prosecutors said additional charges may be forthcoming.

The investigation is being conducted by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Vehicular Homicide Squad, Lacey Township Police Department, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit.

All charges are accusations, and Beswick is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

Across Eretz Yisroel, thousands of avreichim spend their days immersed in Torah, living with extraordinary dedication and extremely limited means. They and their families willingly make sacrifices throughout the year so that limud Torah can remain at the center of their lives.

Today, even this has become increasingly difficult to sustain.

A weak American dollar has reduced the value of support arriving from overseas, while at the same time, government funding cuts and the rising price of groceries, clothing and other necessities have put growing pressure on kollel families. The regular monthly checks upon which many households depend simply no longer stretch as far as they once did.

This financial strain is especially painful before Sukkos. Making Yom Tov brings unavoidable expenses, from stocking the kitchen to purchasing clothing and other basic necessities. In previous years, many Roshei Kollel distributed special Yom Tov bonuses to help their yungerleit meet those costs. This year, numerous kollelim are struggling to provide them.

In response, Adopt-a-Kollel has launched its Mind the Gap campaign, a one-time effort to ensure that these families can enter Sukkos with the dignity they deserve.

Donations of every size will help place food on a table, purchase much-needed clothing, and relieve the anxiety weighing on a home steeped in Torah.

The Adopt-a-Kollel revolution has connected kehillos around the world with individual kollelim in Eretz Yisroel. They are our kollelim and our yungerleit—families with whom our own kehillos have built a genuine and lasting bond.

Now, they need us to go the extra mile. CLICK HERE.

Please support the Mind the Gap campaign today and help a Torah family make Yom Tov.

Help a kollel family make Yom Tov: CLICK HERE
To donate by phone, call 732-314-7866

HaGaon HaRav Shlomo Eisenberger Shlita, Rosh Yeshiva of Telshe Yeshiva in Cleveland, will deliver Divrei Chizuk and Hisorerus in Lakewood tonight, Thursday evening, ahead of the Yemei HaDin.

The gathering will take place at Khal Kol Chaim, 618 Carnetta Drive, beginning at 8:00 PM, and will be followed by Maariv. The address will focus on Chizuk and preparation for the upcoming Yomim Noraim.

Thousands upon thousands of women filled a massive venue in Lakewood on Wednesday night for the annual N’shei Adirei HaTorah event, an extraordinary evening of chizuk, inspiration and recognition of the vital role women play in supporting lives dedicated to Torah.

The gathering, held at 1600 Avenue of the States, Tower 5, drew women from Lakewood and surrounding communities. Organizers had anticipated a turnout of between 15,000 and 20,000 women, with the enormous crowd filling the venue as the program got underway.

The evening featured the participation of the Lakewood Roshei HaYeshiva shlita, along with addresses from HaRav Dovid Breslauer shlita, Rosh Kollel Zichron Moshe, and HaRav Uren Reich shlita, Rosh HaYeshiva of Ohr Zechariah/Woodlake Yeshiva. Attendees also heard an unforgettable story brought to life by renowned storyteller Reb Yechiel Spero.

The program included live music and a special video presentation highlighting the tremendous role of the N’shei Chayil who stand behind and support their husbands and families in lives centered around Torah and avodas Hashem.

A large-scale safety and traffic operation was in place throughout the evening to accommodate the massive turnout. Central Jersey Hatzolah, Chaverim, Lakewood Shomrim, the Lakewood Police Department, the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office and additional agencies were on hand, working to assist with security, traffic, medical coverage and the movement of thousands of attendees in and out of the area.

The massive gathering concluded after an uplifting evening of achdus and chizuk, leaving thousands inspired as they headed home during the Aseres Yemei Teshuvah.

A Manchester Township man has been sentenced to six years in New Jersey State Prison for his role in a 2024 shooting in Toms River Township, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced.

Anthony Zigarelli, 21, was sentenced on September 11 by Superior Court Judge Guy P. Ryan after previously pleading guilty to aggravated assault. The six-year sentence is subject to New Jersey’s No Early Release Act, requiring Zigarelli to serve at least 85% of the term before becoming eligible for parole.

Zigarelli was also sentenced to five years in state prison for being a certain person not to possess a weapon. The two sentences will run concurrently.

The charges stem from a May 14, 2024 incident near Camino Medio and Camino Verde in Toms River. Police responded shortly after 4:00 p.m. following multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire.

Investigators determined that a man was riding his bicycle through the area when Zigarelli and Anthony Ventrice, 19, of Toms River, were standing outside a vehicle. Prosecutors said Ventrice fired multiple shots toward the bicyclist before the two entered the vehicle. As they drove past the victim, Zigarelli allegedly fired additional shots in his direction.

The victim was not struck and was not injured.

Zigarelli was taken into custody by Toms River Township Police on May 29, 2024, and has remained detained at the Ocean County Jail. He pleaded guilty to aggravated assault and the weapons charge on June 1.

Ventrice, who was a juvenile at the time of the shooting, was also arrested following the incident. His case was later transferred to adult Criminal Court, and he pleaded guilty to aggravated assault on June 1. His sentencing remains pending.

Prosecutor Billhimer credited Assistant Prosecutor Emma Hurst, the Toms River Township Police Department, Lakewood Township Police Department and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit for their work on the case.

The Manchester Township Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 31-year-old Dillon Popper, who has not been in contact with his family since September 4.

Popper is described as approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighing around 170 pounds, with blond hair and blue eyes. Police noted that his hair may currently be shorter than shown in the photograph being circulated.

Authorities say numerous investigative efforts have been undertaken to locate Popper. Information developed during the investigation indicates that he may currently be in the Washington, D.C. area.

Anyone with information regarding Popper’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Manchester Township Police Department at 732-657-6111.

Jackson Township Police are reassuring residents that there is no tiger roaming loose in the township after a viral social media video prompted multiple calls to 911.

Police said they contacted Six Flags Great Adventure following the online claims and confirmed that all animals at the park are accounted for and secured in their designated enclosures.

Authorities urged residents not to call 911 regarding the circulating video, saying unnecessary calls can tie up emergency lines and telecommunicators.

Preparations are underway in Lakewood for tonight’s annual N’shei Adirei HaTorah event, with an estimated 15,000 to 20,000 women expected to attend the major gathering at 1600 Avenue of the States, Tower 5.

Doors will open at 6:45 PM, with the program scheduled to begin at 7:30 PM. The event will feature the participation of the Lakewood Roshei HaYeshiva shlita, along with guest speakers HaRav Dovid Breslauer shlita, Rosh Kollel Zichron Moshe, and HaRav Uren shlita, Rosh HaYeshiva of Ohr Zechariah/Woodlake Yeshiva.

The program will also include an unforgettable story brought to life by R’ Yechiel Spero, live music, and an exclusive music video highlighting the vital role women play in supporting lives devoted to Torah.

Crews have been working to prepare the massive venue ahead of the expected crowd, with thousands anticipated to arrive from Lakewood and surrounding communities for the annual evening of chizuk and inspiration.

Lakewood Alerts regrets to inform you of the Petira of Reb Shuey Englard A”H, who was niftar following an illness. He was 50 years old.

The Levaya is scheduled for 4:00 PM today at Arlington Shul, 501 Arlington Avenue.

Due to limited parking in the area, those who are able to walk to the Levaya are being asked to please do so.

The Levaya can be watched live here:

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Baruch Dayan HaEmes…….

A newly released report is raising questions about NJ Transit’s performance, finding that the agency’s operating budget has increased significantly while mechanical reliability has declined.

The analysis from the Garden State Initiative examined NJ Transit performance and financial data between 2020 and 2024.

According to the report, NJ Transit’s operating budget grew by roughly 20% during that period, while mechanical reliability deteriorated. The agency’s current fiscal year 2027 operating budget stands at approximately $3.5 billion, about 46% higher than in 2020.

The report argues that Amtrak-owned infrastructure, which NJ Transit trains rely on throughout the Northeast Corridor, is responsible for some disruptions but does not explain all of the agency’s reliability problems.

Researchers pointed to NJ Transit’s own fleet management, equipment failures and operational practices as areas requiring additional scrutiny.

The report recommends that state officials focus more heavily on performance measurements and operational reforms rather than relying solely on additional funding to improve service.

NJ Transit carries hundreds of thousands of bus and rail passengers throughout New Jersey and into New York and Philadelphia each weekday.

Rutgers University and RWJBarnabas Health announced Tuesday the launch of a new technology and healthcare innovation hub powered by Amazon Web Services.

The Rutgers/RWJBarnabas Health Innovation Hub will bring together students, physicians, researchers, engineers and technology experts to develop new tools aimed at improving medical education, clinical care and healthcare delivery across New Jersey.

The partnership will use Amazon Web Services cloud computing and artificial intelligence technology to work on real-world healthcare challenges, ranging from research and medical training to patient care.

Students studying medicine, engineering, computer science, business and other fields will also have opportunities to participate in projects through the new hub.

Officials say the initiative is designed to accelerate the development of new technologies while preparing students to work in rapidly changing healthcare and technology fields.

RWJBarnabas Health is New Jersey’s largest academic healthcare system, while Rutgers operates medical, engineering and research programs across the state.

New Jersey has joined a multistate lawsuit seeking to block a new federal immigration rule that would give officials broader authority to consider an immigrant’s use of government benefits when deciding whether to approve a green card or certain other immigration applications.

Attorney General Jennifer Davenport joined attorneys general from 21 other states in challenging the Department of Homeland Security’s new “public charge” rule.

Under the new policy, immigration officials would have broader discretion to consider the use of means-tested public benefits, including Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program, SNAP food assistance and certain housing programs.

The policy could also allow officials in some circumstances to consider benefits received by family members whom an applicant is legally required to support, even when that family member is a U.S. citizen.

The Trump administration says public-charge rules are intended to ensure that individuals seeking permanent status in the United States can support themselves without becoming dependent on government assistance.

New Jersey and the other states challenging the policy argue that the rule goes beyond federal law and could cause eligible families to avoid healthcare, food and other assistance out of fear that receiving benefits could affect their immigration status.

The new rule is currently scheduled to take effect September 18 unless it is blocked by a court.

The coalition is asking a federal judge to declare the rule unlawful and prevent it from taking effect.

New Jersey has begun issuing its latest round of ANCHOR property tax relief payments, with distributions starting today, September 15, on a rolling basis.

Under the program, eligible homeowners with 2025 gross income of $150,000 or less can receive $1,500, while homeowners earning between $150,001 and $250,000 can receive $1,000.

Eligible renters can receive $450, while renters who were age 65 or older by December 31, 2025, can receive $700.

The New Jersey Division of Taxation says most recipients should receive their payment within 90 days of filing unless additional information is required.

Many eligible residents are being automatically filed based on information from their previous ANCHOR application. Residents who received last year’s benefit by direct deposit will generally have their 2025 payment sent to the same bank account.

Today is also the deadline for residents who received an ANCHOR Benefit Confirmation Letter to update their banking information, request a paper check, or notify the state that they are no longer eligible for the property listed on the letter.

Residents who were not automatically filed can still submit an application. The overall deadline to apply for the 2025 ANCHOR benefit is November 2.

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill on Tuesday praised a U.S. Supreme Court decision that blocked the Trump administration from imposing new restrictions on mail-in voting ahead of the November midterm elections.

The Supreme Court on Monday declined to allow the administration to immediately implement rules that would have required states to comply with new federal requirements for mailed ballots, including standardized ballot envelopes and the submission of voter information through a federal system. Lower courts had previously blocked the requirements, and the Supreme Court’s action means states can continue operating under their existing vote-by-mail procedures while the legal challenges continue. Justices Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas dissented from the decision.

“States run elections, not Donald Trump,” Sherrill said in a statement Tuesday. She said the ruling reinforces her position that vote-by-mail is “a safe, secure, and reliable way to vote,” and argued that the Constitution gives states authority over the administration of elections.

Sherrill described the decision as a victory for New Jersey voters and criticized President Trump’s effort to change mail-in voting rules.

Trump, meanwhile, criticized the Supreme Court’s decision Tuesday and defended his administration’s push for tighter mail-ballot requirements, arguing that the changes were necessary to strengthen election security.

The ruling comes as election officials across the country are preparing for the November 3, 2026 midterm elections, with mail ballots already being distributed in some states.

Sometimes, the future of a Jewish family changes in a single moment.

A boy says Shema for the first time. A girl comes home asking her mother to light Shabbos candles. What begins in a Shuvu classroom can reach the entire family and transform generations.

This was the vision of Rav Avrohom Pam zt”l 35 years ago: reach one precious child and awaken an entire Jewish home.

Today, reduced government funding threatens this sacred mission.

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A major military restructuring is coming to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, with the U.S. Air Force planning to inactivate the 87th Air Base Wing and transfer its operations to the 305th Air Mobility Wing by summer 2027.

Under the planned consolidation, the 87th Air Base Wing’s personnel, infrastructure and mission responsibilities will shift to the 305th Air Mobility Wing as part of an effort to streamline command and control and improve operational readiness at the sprawling New Jersey military installation.

The 305th Air Mobility Wing currently carries out strategic airlift and aerial refueling missions around the world. Under the new structure, it will also take over responsibility as the host wing for Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst while continuing its existing missions.

The Air Force says the restructuring is intended to make more efficient use of personnel and resources and is expected to have limited impact on the base’s day-to-day operations.

The 305th will continue providing installation support for the numerous military units and joint mission partners operating at the base.

Some positions are expected to be eliminated as part of the consolidation, although Air Force officials say the overall reduction in personnel is expected to be minimal.

The 87th Air Base Wing currently provides installation management for Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, the nation’s only tri-service joint base, and consists of more than 3,100 officers, enlisted service members and civilian employees.

Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst spans portions of Burlington and Ocean counties and combines Air Force, Army and Navy operations at one installation.

An 80-year-old man from the Whiting section of Manchester Township was killed in a two-vehicle crash on Route 79 in Marlboro Township, authorities said.

The crash occurred shortly after 11:45 a.m. Friday, September 11, near the intersection of Route 79 and Blossom Avenue.

According to the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, the Manchester Township resident was driving a 2002 Toyota Camry Solara southbound on Route 79 when his vehicle entered the northbound lane and collided with a 2022 Ford F-350 traveling in the opposite direction.

The Toyota driver was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. His identity has not yet been released.

The pickup truck was driven by a 52-year-old man from the Port Monmouth section of Middletown. Authorities said he did not suffer life-threatening injuries.

Route 79 was closed between Blossom Avenue and Pleasant Valley Road for several hours following the crash.

The collision remains under investigation by the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, the Monmouth County Serious Collision Analysis Response Team and Marlboro Township Police.

Anyone with information is asked to contact investigators.

A new study is raising questions about how artificial intelligence could reshape New Jersey’s workforce, ranking the Garden State among the top 15 states with the greatest share of workers in occupations considered highly vulnerable to AI-related disruption.

According to research from SmartAsset, approximately 3.4% of New Jersey’s workforce is employed in jobs identified as having a high potential to be altered or disrupted by artificial intelligence. That represents an estimated 144,000 workers across the state.

Researchers identified 26 occupations as particularly vulnerable to AI-driven changes, including mathematicians, proofreaders, court reporters and web developers.

The findings do not necessarily mean those jobs will disappear. Instead, AI could automate certain tasks, reduce demand for some responsibilities or significantly change how employees perform their work.

At the same time, experts say the growth of artificial intelligence is expected to create new jobs and opportunities in other fields as businesses increasingly adopt the technology.

The study comes as employers across the country continue experimenting with AI tools for writing, data analysis, customer service, software development and other workplace functions.

A Philadelphia man has been charged with two counts of Assault by Auto following a head-on crash on Route 539 that left two people seriously injured, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced Monday.

Jared Beswick, 27, of Philadelphia, was charged in connection with the crash, which occurred at approximately 8:45 p.m. Sunday near mile marker 16.5 on Route 539.

According to investigators, Beswick was driving a Ford Explorer northbound on Route 539 when the vehicle was traveling erratically, crossed into the southbound lane and collided head-on with a Toyota RAV4.

The driver of the Toyota and a passenger in Beswick’s vehicle were transported to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, where both were listed in serious but stable condition.

Authorities said Beswick displayed signs of impairment following the crash. Officers also observed multiple open containers of alcohol and pre-rolled marijuana cigarettes inside his vehicle.

Beswick was transported to Southern Ocean Medical Center in Manahawkin, where a blood sample was obtained pursuant to a court-authorized warrant. He was served with the charges at the hospital and, upon his release, is expected to be transported to the Ocean County Jail pending a detention hearing.

The crash remains under investigation and additional charges may be filed.

The investigation is being conducted by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Vehicular Homicide Squad, Lacey Township Police Department and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit.

New Jersey American Water crews are continuing door-to-door canvassing this week in the Ridge Avenue and Central Avenue areas of Lakewood as part of the utility’s Lead Service Line Replacement Program.

According to NJAW contractor CDM Smith, crews are currently working within Census Tracts 7150.01 and 7155.01 to identify homes that may have lead or galvanized steel service lines.

The program follows a 2021 New Jersey law requiring water providers to identify and replace lead and galvanized service lines by 2031.

Residents can submit photos of their water service pipe to NJAW or schedule a free in-person inspection, which typically takes about 15 minutes. Authorized canvassers may also visit designated properties and will wear high-visibility vests displaying New Jersey American Water and CDM Smith logos and carry official identification. They will never request sensitive personal or financial information.

All canvassing, inspections and replacement work are performed by NJAW or its authorized contractors, not Lakewood Township, although the effort is being coordinated with township officials for public awareness and safety.

NJAW says residents can continue using their water as usual and that the water continues to meet all state and federal quality standards, including standards for lead.

Nighttime milling and paving work on Bethel Church Road is scheduled to begin today, Monday, September 14, weather permitting. Milling will take place Monday and Tuesday, followed by paving on Wednesday, with work scheduled nightly from 4:00 PM to 4:00 AM.

Westbound traffic will be closed at Friendship Road in Howell during the work. Eastbound traffic will remain open until 9:00 PM, after which Bethel Church Road will be fully closed until 4:00 AM. Detour signs will be posted.

Thursday is being reserved as a weather or backup day. Roadway striping is scheduled for Friday during daytime hours, with alternating traffic expected. Motorists should plan alternate routes and allow additional travel time.

A Red Bank man has been sentenced to a combined 20 years in New Jersey State Prison for a horrific 2025 crash in Lakewood that claimed the lives of a 42-year-old woman and an 11-year-old girl.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that Raul Luna-Perez, 43, was sentenced Friday by Superior Court Judge Guy P. Ryan to 10 years in state prison on each of two counts of Aggravated Manslaughter. The sentences will run consecutively and are subject to the No Early Release Act, requiring Luna-Perez to serve at least 85% of the sentence before becoming eligible for parole.

He was also sentenced to 18 months in prison for Assault by Auto, which will run concurrently. Luna-Perez pleaded guilty to the charges in June.

The charges stem from a devastating crash shortly after 11:20 p.m. on July 26, 2025, at Cross Street and Hearthstone Drive in Lakewood.

As Lakewood Alerts reported at the time, Luna-Perez was driving a Dodge Durango eastbound on Cross Street when investigators say he crossed the double-yellow line into oncoming traffic and slammed head-on into a Nissan Sentra.

The Nissan’s driver, Maria Pleitez, 42, of Lakewood, was pronounced dead at the scene. An 11-year-old girl seated in the front passenger seat was rushed to Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus, where she succumbed to her injuries.

A second 11-year-old girl seated in the rear of the Nissan was transported to Jersey Shore University Medical Center and later released. A passenger in Luna-Perez’s vehicle was also hospitalized with minor injuries.

Authorities said first responders observed signs that Luna-Perez was under the influence. A court-authorized blood draw later showed his blood alcohol concentration was at least .19 — more than twice New Jersey’s legal limit of .08 — and cocaine metabolites were also detected in his system.

A toxicology report concluded that Luna-Perez was under the influence of both alcohol and cocaine at the time of the crash.

Investigators further determined that Luna-Perez was accelerating at approximately 60 mph and had crossed the double-yellow line to pass four vehicles before colliding with the Nissan.

Luna-Perez was initially charged with two counts of Vehicular Homicide and Assault by Auto. He was later released on strict home detention before being transferred into federal custody on an ICE detainer.

As the investigation continued, prosecutors upgraded the charges to two counts of Aggravated Manslaughter and two counts of Strict Liability Vehicular Homicide.

Detectives later took Luna-Perez into custody at an ICE detention facility in Elizabeth, New Jersey. He has remained lodged in the Ocean County Jail since August 2025.

Prosecutor Billhimer credited Senior Assistant Prosecutor Stephen Burke, the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Vehicular Homicide Squad, Lakewood Township Police Department, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office for their work on the case.

A Toms River man has been sentenced to state prison following two separate narcotics investigations involving cocaine distribution, eluding police and financial facilitation, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced.

Phillip Tarver, 41, was sentenced by Superior Court Judge Guy P. Ryan after previously pleading guilty to multiple charges stemming from incidents in January and August of 2025.

Tarver received 12-year prison terms for cocaine distribution charges connected to both investigations, along with a seven-year sentence for eluding police. He was also sentenced to two separate three-year terms for financial facilitation. The narcotics and eluding sentences will run concurrently, while the financial facilitation sentences will run consecutively.

The first investigation began on January 21, 2025, when Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force detectives were conducting surveillance during an undercover cocaine investigation in Toms River. Detectives observed Tarver meeting with another target of the investigation before following his vehicle.

Toms River Police later stopped Tarver on Route 37, and a police K-9 indicated the presence of narcotics inside the vehicle. Investigators subsequently recovered pills, a knife and approximately $5,300 in cash. Authorities said Tarver was later searched at the Ocean County Jail and found with approximately 110 grams of crack cocaine.

Tarver was subsequently released under New Jersey’s bail reform system.

Months later, on August 12, 2025, Toms River Police officers investigating separate narcotics activity spotted Tarver near mile marker 83 of the Garden State Parkway. Police said Tarver refused to stop and threw items from his vehicle while fleeing officers.

The pursuit continued into South Toms River before being terminated over safety concerns. Officers recovered approximately 21 grams of cocaine that authorities said had been thrown from Tarver’s vehicle.

Tarver was later located in Barnegat and taken into custody without incident. Police said he was carrying approximately $10,000 in cash at the time of his arrest. He has remained jailed since then.

Tarver pleaded guilty to the charges in July.

Prosecutor Billhimer credited Senior Assistant Prosecutor Stephen Burke and numerous local and county law enforcement agencies for their work on the investigations.

Travelers using Newark Liberty International Airport should expect changes beginning Monday, September 14, as AirTrain service at Newark Airport Station will be replaced by shuttle buses during much of the weekday.

NJ Transit says that from 5:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. on most weekdays, Port Authority shuttle buses will transport passengers between Newark Airport Station and airport terminals while work continues on the AirTrain Newark Replacement Program.

NJ Transit trains will continue making their normal stops at Newark Airport Station throughout the project.

AirTrain service is expected to operate normally on Saturdays and Sundays, as well as during certain holiday and peak travel periods.

Port Authority personnel will be available to direct passengers arriving at the station to the correct shuttle buses and airport terminals. Travelers are being encouraged to allow additional time when heading to or from Newark Airport while the temporary arrangement is in place.

A New Jersey state watchdog is urging lawmakers to strengthen protections for property owners amid concerns over an increase in deed theft and real estate fraud.

The State Commission of Investigation says scammers are increasingly taking advantage of remote real estate transactions and the widespread availability of property records online to impersonate legitimate owners and fraudulently transfer or sell properties.

Investigators found that vacant properties, seasonal homes and properties belonging to elderly, deceased or absentee owners are particularly vulnerable.

In one case reviewed by investigators, scammers reportedly sold the home of a recently deceased New Jersey resident and then rented the property to unsuspecting tenants. In another, a buyer paid $60,000 to individuals posing as the owners of vacant property.

The commission is calling on lawmakers to consider stronger identity-verification requirements when deeds are recorded, notifications to property owners when ownership records are changed and expanded property-alert systems.

Officials also suggested tighter rules for remote notarizations and additional safeguards to prevent forged signatures and fraudulent property listings.

New Jersey currently does not maintain a statewide count of deed-theft cases, making it difficult to determine the full extent of the problem.

As Lakewood Alerts enters its fifth year of operations, we thank our large and growing readership who have made this website a success.

We are endlessly grateful to Hakadosh Baruch Hu for the opportunity to provide coverage of the burgeoning Ihr HaTorah, and express our deepest thanks to our readers and advertisers who are an integral part of our continued success.

Since its humble inception in 2022, Lakewood Alerts has grown from a fledgling website looking for its footing to one visited more than 1 million times each month and a growing team of reporters – and readers! – who provide us with a wealth of information, photos, and videos pertinent to the Lakewood region.

As we enter 5787, we express our deepest wishes that Hashem grant us all a year of prosperity, health, security, and safety, and may we have the Zechus of reporting the arrival of Moshiach!

Kesiva Vechasima Tova to all!

ויהי רצון שתזכו לכתיבה וחתימה טובה לחיים טובים וארוכים בספרן של צדיקים גמורים

The Lakewood Alerts Team

With Rosh Hashanah approaching, Lakewood Alerts is pleased to share the following practical halachos, written by HaRav Simcha Stender and reviewed and approved by HaRav Simcha Bunim Cohen.

Selichos and Erev Rosh Hashanah

• Birchas HaTorah should be recited before Selichos.

• Ashrei is an integral part of Selichos and should be recited before Selichos.

• When the tzibbur recites the Yud-Gimmel Middos, one should join them and then return to where he left off.

• Selichos should be recited standing. If standing throughout is difficult, at a minimum one should stand during Kel Melech Yoshev, the Yud-Gimmel Middos and Vidui.

• When going to the mikvah for Rosh Hashanah, it is best not to go until one hour before chatzos — approximately 12:00 noon in the Tri-State area. One should ideally immerse three times.

• If one recalls that he made a neder or began a ma’aseh tovah — for example, going to the mikvah every Erev Shabbos — without saying “bli neder,” and has done so at least three times, he should mention it to at least one of the dayanim.

Davening

• If one omits HaMelech HaKadosh, he must repeat Shemoneh Esrei. If one is unsure, he may assume it was said if the wording of the brachah differs from usual, such as on Yom Tov. Otherwise, he must assume it was omitted.

• If one omits one of the other changes and has already recited the Shem Hashem of that brachah, he should continue as usual.

• One should not speak from the beginning of the berachos of the tekios until after the final tekios following davening. Asher Yatzar may be recited after the first set of tekios.

• The established minhag is to stand when the Aron HaKodesh is opened. One who has difficulty standing may sit.

• When bowing fully during Chazaras HaShatz, there should be a separation between the head and the floor. Papers distributed for this purpose should be placed under the head, not the knees. A tallis may also be used. If one’s pants become dusty, they should not be wiped off due to the issur of Melabein.

• Those who normally make personal requests on Rosh Hashanah may do so this year as well, even though it falls on Shabbos.

Eating and Sleeping

• Those who have the minhag to make the brachah on the apple should ensure that dates and pomegranates are not on the table when reciting the brachah.

• The Shem Hashem may be recited in the Yehi Ratzon, provided it is said with proper kavanah.

• Even if one does not eat the siman, he may say the Yehi Ratzon without the Shem Hashem.

• On the second night of Rosh Hashanah, when making Shehecheyanu during Kiddush and hadlakas neiros, one should have a Shehecheyanu fruit within eyesight. It should not be served on the first night.

• One who recites Shehecheyanu should make sure to eat from the fruit. The minhag is for the rest of the family to have a small taste as well.

• There is an inyan not to sleep in a bed during the day. If necessary, one may take a nap after chatzos.

• Wasting time is akin to sleeping. Instead, one should learn, and if he is too tired to learn, he should recite Tehillim.

• Nuts are not eaten on Rosh Hashanah. Many are not makpid when nuts are cooked into another food and the dish is not identified as nut-based. For example, using nut flour in cooking is generally not an issue.

Aseres Yemei Teshuvah

• During the Aseres Yemei Teshuvah, one may not eat pas palter — bread-like items baked by a non-Jew.

• Most Mezonos products, including pretzels, cakes and cookies, are subject to this restriction and should not be eaten when made by a non-Jew. Pasta and most cereals are not subject to this halachah. Cheerios are subject to a machlokes, but one may be meikel for children.

• When using money for kapparos, some say one should use the same amount it would cost to purchase a chicken. Others say any substantial amount is sufficient.

• Some have the custom to use one male chicken for several males and one female chicken for several females. Others say it is preferable for each person to have their own chicken.

• Since kapparos is required, one may not use maaser money. However, if one pays extra so that each person can have their own chicken, the additional amount may be paid with maaser money, provided it goes to tzedakah. Some say not to use maaser if having an individual chicken is the family’s minhag.

• The Rema writes that a pregnant woman should perform kapparos for the baby. If she does not know the baby’s gender and is using chickens, she should wave a male chicken in case the baby is a boy. Those whose minhag is to use one chicken per person should also wave an additional female chicken in case the baby is a girl.

Written by Rabbi Simcha Stender and reviewed and approved by Rabbi Simcha Bunim Cohen.

Lakewood Township marked the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on Friday, lowering the American flag to half-staff in remembrance of the 2,977 innocent people who lost their lives in the deadliest terrorist attack on U.S. soil.

Township officials also paid tribute to the hundreds of first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice while rushing toward danger to save others.

Among those killed on 9/11 were 343 New York City firefighters, 60 NYPD and Port Authority police officers, eight EMS personnel, and other members of law enforcement and emergency services. In the years since the attacks, countless additional first responders have suffered serious illnesses and premature deaths linked to their work at Ground Zero.

“It seems so long ago that America suffered this historic attack; and — at this crucial anniversary — it is imperative that we, as Americans, educate those who were not alive when this happened as to what occurred that day,” Lakewood Police Chief Gregory Meyer said. “We need to keep the memory of the heroic police officers and other first responders; among thousands of innocent civilians; alive and continue to recognize their sacrifices!”

Lakewood Fire Chief Jonathan Yahr said the passage of 25 years has not diminished the community’s commitment to remembering those who were lost.

“A quarter of a century has passed, but our promise to ‘Never Forget’ has not faded,” Yahr said. “The sacrifice of our fallen brothers and sisters reminds us daily of the profound responsibility we accept when we wear this uniform. Here in Lakewood, we remain steadfast in our commitment to protect our community and to uphold the values of selflessness, brotherhood and dedication that defined the heroes of 9/11.”

Lakewood EMS Chief Crystal Van de Zilver reflected on the extraordinary courage demonstrated by emergency personnel that day.

“As I reflect on September 11th, I am reminded of the countless heroic actions from our fellow first responders who selflessly ran toward danger without hesitation, demonstrating extraordinary courage in the face of unimaginable devastation,” she said. “May we continue to share their stories and honor their service.”

Township Committeeman and Emergency Services Liaison Meir Lichtenstein, a longtime volunteer EMT, also paid tribute to the more than 400 emergency responders who died while trying to save others.

“At this solemn juncture, we pay special tribute to the over 400 men and women who did what emergency services personnel do every day — put the lives of others ahead of their own — and paid the ultimate price as a result,” Lichtenstein said. “No doubt, their legacy of service and sacrifice are remembered — and will inspire American heroes for generations to come.”

Lakewood Township joined communities across the country in remembering the victims, honoring the first responders and renewing the pledge to never forget the events and sacrifices of September 11, 2001.

The Lakewood Fire Department gathered Tuesday at its Cedar Bridge Avenue headquarters to honor longtime Captain Robert J. Leon Sr. upon his retirement and to welcome three new full-time firefighters to the department.

Captain Leon has served with the Lakewood Fire Department since 1992, beginning his career when Lakewood’s population was only a fraction of what it is today.

During the ceremony, Fire Chief Jonathan Yahr reflected on working alongside Leon during the department’s earlier years and credited Leon and his close-knit group of colleagues with helping the department grow significantly in both size and professionalism over the decades.

Following the retirement tribute, John Cawley, Michael Santos and Dylan Dickenson were sworn in as new career firefighters, marking another step in the department’s continued expansion as it serves Lakewood’s rapidly growing population.

Family members, friends and fellow firefighters filled the headquarters for the ceremony, celebrating both Leon’s decades of service and the beginning of the three new firefighters’ careers.

Deputy Mayor Menashe Miller and Township Committeeman and Emergency Services Liaison Meir Lichtenstein also attended and presented Leon with a Lakewood Township proclamation recognizing his longtime service.

“On behalf of the Mayor, Township Committee and Citizens of Lakewood, I’d like to extend my best heartfelt wishes to Captain Leon and his family upon his retirement, following an exemplary, decades-long career of lifesaving public service,” Lichtenstein said. “The seeds that Captain Leon planted at the Lakewood Fire Department when our town was small have blossomed into the large and professional Department it is today.”

A school bus crashed into a home in Lakehurst early Thursday morning following a two-vehicle accident.

The crash happened at approximately 6:24 a.m. Emergency crews responding to the scene found that the school bus had collided with another vehicle before hitting the house.

No students were on the bus at the time, and no one was trapped.

Both drivers were evaluated by EMS, and one was transported to a hospital for further treatment.

Police, firefighters and EMS crews from Lakehurst, Manchester and Whiting responded to the scene. Traffic in the area was affected for several hours while crews secured the vehicles and home and police investigated the crash.

The scene was cleared at approximately 9:15 a.m. The Lakehurst Police Department is investigating.

The New Jersey Turnpike Authority has scheduled a public hearing for next week on the massive $509 million Garden State Parkway overhaul previously reported by Lakewood Alerts.

The hearing will be held Wednesday, September 16, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Ocean County Library’s Toms River Branch, located at 101 Washington Street.

The project covers approximately 5.7 miles of the Garden State Parkway, from milepost 78.8 to 84.5, and includes major changes to several exits serving Toms River and surrounding Ocean County communities.

Plans include a new southbound entrance ramp and northbound exit ramp at Interchange 80, relocation of the southbound exit ramp at Interchange 81, and new collector-distributor roadways serving Interchanges 81, 82 and 82A.

The project is also designed to reduce dangerous weaving movements, improve traffic flow and add upgraded travel lanes and shoulders. Construction is currently expected to begin in 2027.

Newly released project information also shows that approximately 36 acres of forested land would be affected by the work. The Turnpike Authority has prepared a compensatory reforestation plan as part of the proposal.

Members of the public will be able to review the plans and provide comments during the September 16 hearing. Written comments on the overall Parkway improvement project will be accepted through October 1, while comments related to the reforestation plan will remain open through November 15.

As Lakewood Alerts previously reported, the $509 million project would bring major changes to several Garden State Parkway exits in Ocean County.

Gas prices across New Jersey jumped again Thursday, with the statewide average for regular gasoline climbing to approximately $4.36 per gallon.

AAA data shows prices increased by about five cents overnight as motorists continue dealing with rapidly rising costs at the pump.

Prices can vary significantly from station to station. In Edison on Thursday morning, two stations located across the street from each other were charging $4.49 and $4.17 per gallon, respectively.

The latest increase comes just days after New Jersey’s statewide average stood at approximately $4.27 per gallon, meaning drivers are now paying nearly nine cents more per gallon than at the beginning of the week.

Motorists are being encouraged to compare prices before filling up, as significant differences are being reported even among stations located in the same area.

New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport is pushing federal regulators to strengthen rules aimed at stopping illegal robocalls before they reach consumers.

Davenport is co-leading a bipartisan coalition of 49 state and territory attorneys general calling on the Federal Communications Commission to strengthen its “Know Your Upstream Provider” requirements, which govern how telephone companies vet the providers sending call traffic through their networks.

Under the proposed changes, phone companies would be expected to conduct more thorough checks on the providers they do business with, continuously monitor their activity and take additional precautions when dealing with higher-risk customers, including high-volume calling services.

The attorneys general argue that stronger requirements would make it easier to identify companies carrying large volumes of illegal calls and cut scammers off from the legitimate telephone network before those calls reach consumers.

“New Jerseyans are fed up with a constant barrage of unwanted robocalls,” Davenport said, adding that stronger rules would give phone companies greater incentive to conduct proper due diligence before accepting call traffic.

According to the Attorney General’s Office, Americans received approximately 29.6 billion scam robocalls and texts last year and lost nearly $2 billion to scams connected to fraudulent calls and messages.

The latest effort builds on previous multistate actions targeting illegal robocall operations and companies accused of allowing fraudulent call traffic to pass through their networks.

New Jersey is one of the lead states in the latest coalition, alongside Indiana, North Carolina, Ohio and Pennsylvania.

NJ Transit announced that free Wi-Fi is now available on more than 1,500 buses across New Jersey as part of a major technology upgrade.

The new onboard equipment is also expected to improve real-time bus tracking and provide more accurate arrival predictions for passengers.

NJ Transit plans to install the technology on nearly 2,000 buses, representing more than 80% of its fleet, by the end of 2026.

Two Toms River Township Public Works employees are being praised for stepping in to comfort and assist a 6-year-old boy after his mother suffered a medical episode while walking him to school.

The incident occurred on September 3, the first day of school, as the mother and her son were walking to East Dover Elementary School. Emergency medical personnel were called to assist the mother, while the young boy was left visibly distressed as first responders tended to her.

Public Works employees Louis Reed and Ed Kempker were nearby in a township truck and quickly stepped in to help. Reed comforted the boy, safely escorted him across the busy intersection at Vaughn Avenue and made sure he arrived at school safely and on time, while Kempker assisted from the truck.

East Dover Elementary School Principal Matthew Gray praised the employees for their compassion and quick thinking, saying their actions transformed what could have been a traumatic morning for the child into an example of community support.

Toms River Mayor Daniel Rodrick also thanked the two employees for their actions, saying the township was fortunate to have them serving the community. The Toms River Regional School District similarly expressed its appreciation for their quick and compassionate response.

The township’s Public Works Department is responsible for numerous municipal services, including roadway maintenance, sanitation and emergency response within Toms River.

A 67-year-old Barnegat Township man has been charged with murder in connection with the death of his wife following a domestic violence incident, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced.

Police responded to a home on Windward Drive at approximately 6:30 p.m. on Monday, September 7, where officers found 69-year-old Eileen Garvin deceased on the floor. Her husband, William Garvin, was found seated in a chair with a knife protruding from his chest and was transported to AtlanticCare Regional Medical Center in Atlantic City, where he remains in stable condition.

Investigators determined that William Garvin was responsible for his wife’s death and that his knife wound was self-inflicted, authorities said. He was charged with murder and served with a complaint-warrant at the hospital. Once released, Garvin will be transported to the Ocean County Jail, where he will remain pending a detention hearing.

The investigation was conducted by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Barnegat Township Police Department, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit and Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office.

A Brick Township man was arrested Tuesday morning after police say he fled from a traffic stop near Brick Memorial High School, drove at high speeds through a school zone and nearly hit two crossing guards before leading officers on a foot chase.

According to Brick Township Police, the incident began at approximately 7:00 a.m. on Lanes Mill Road, where an officer conducting traffic enforcement spotted a vehicle stopped on the shoulder while dropping off students. The officer approached the vehicle and instructed the driver, identified as 38-year-old Corey Goodwin of Brick, to move from the shoulder. After noticing Goodwin was not wearing a seatbelt, the officer directed him to pull into the nearby Boland Field parking lot for a traffic stop.

Police say Goodwin initially appeared to comply but suddenly accelerated northbound on Lanes Mill Road. He reportedly crossed into the wrong side of the roadway, passed other vehicles and nearly hit two uniformed school crossing guards who were stopping traffic. Another officer conducting radar enforcement nearby clocked the vehicle traveling at 73 mph.

Goodwin eventually stopped at a residence on Lanes Mill Road and fled on foot, according to police. Officers chased him through several backyards in the Sawmill Road and Creek Road area. Police say he crossed a creek before continuing toward Greenwood Loop Road, where responding officers located and took him into custody.

Goodwin was charged with Eluding, Aggravated Assault on a Police Officer, Hindering Apprehension and Obstructing the Administration of Law. Police also discovered two outstanding warrants for his arrest. He received multiple motor vehicle summonses, including Reckless Driving, Passing in a No-Passing Zone, Failure to Obey Police Directing Traffic and Failure to Stop for a Crossing Guard’s Whistle. He was subsequently lodged in the Ocean County Jail.

The incident comes as Brick Township Police have increased traffic enforcement around local schools, with officers focusing on speeding and other dangerous driving behavior in school zones.

A federal appeals court on Tuesday vacated a key New Jersey permit needed for a proposed $1 billion natural gas pipeline project that would run through the Raritan Bay between New Jersey and New York.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit ruled that the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection did not adequately explain how the Northeast Supply Enhancement pipeline project would comply with state water-quality standards when the agency approved a key water quality certification last year.

The proposed project, being developed by energy company Williams through its Transcontinental Gas Pipeline subsidiary, would include a roughly 37-mile expansion designed to increase natural gas capacity between Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York.

In its ruling, the three-judge appeals panel found that NJDEP failed to sufficiently address concerns surrounding dredging in the Raritan Bay and the potential disturbance of contaminants buried in the seabed.

The court’s decision does not permanently block the pipeline project. Instead, the matter has been sent back to NJDEP, which can provide additional analysis, request more information from the developer, issue a revised certification or reach a different decision on the permit.

Williams said it is reviewing the court’s decision and maintains that the project is important for strengthening energy reliability and meeting growing demand in the region.

Environmental groups that challenged the permit welcomed Tuesday’s ruling, arguing that construction could impact water quality, marine habitats and wetlands in parts of New Jersey.

The project has faced years of regulatory and legal challenges. New Jersey previously rejected permits connected to the proposal before state regulators approved the water quality certification in November 2025 and another key permit earlier this year.

New Jersey entrepreneurs will be able to apply beginning Wednesday for grants worth up to $400,000 to help launch new startup businesses in the Garden State.

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority will open the third round of its New Jersey Innovation Fellows Program on September 9 at 10:00 a.m.

The program provides qualifying entrepreneurial teams with up to $200,000 in base funding, along with the possibility of receiving another $200,000 in additional awards, bringing the total potential funding to $400,000 per team.

Unlike many traditional business grants, the funding is designed as “income replacement,” allowing entrepreneurs to devote their time to developing and launching their businesses while receiving financial support during the two-year development period.

Participants also receive mentorship and training while building their companies.

Applications will remain open through December 4 at 5:00 p.m. Eligible teams must be looking to establish and grow their startup business in New Jersey.

NJ Transit riders will see a series of upgrades to the agency’s mobile app beginning Wednesday, September 9, as the transit agency rolls out changes aimed at making schedules, service alerts and trip planning easier to use.

The update will introduce a new unified Departures & Schedules section bringing train, bus and light rail information into a more consistent format.

NJ Transit says riders will also receive improved access to active service alerts, enhanced nearby-station and trip-planning features and updates designed to make mobile ticketing more reliable.

The new version will also include improvements to special-event ticketing, accessibility, payments, app performance and overall usability.

The changes follow the recent launch of NJ Transit’s redesigned website and “Navvie,” the agency’s new AI-powered digital assistant that helps riders find trip-planning and travel information.

NJ Transit says feedback from customers helped shape many of the changes being introduced in the updated app.

New Jersey businesses can begin applying today for up to $25 million in state tax credits being auctioned to raise funding for programs aimed at combating hunger and improving food access across the Garden State.

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority opened applications Tuesday for its latest Food Desert Relief Tax Credit Auction. The program allows qualifying corporate taxpayers and insurance companies to purchase tax credits that can reduce their 2026 New Jersey tax liability by up to 15%.

Money raised through the auction will be used to support grants, loans, technical assistance and other programs designed to increase access to affordable and nutritious food in communities considered food deserts.

Businesses do not need to operate in the food industry or be located in a designated food desert to participate in the auction.

The NJEDA says previous proceeds from the program have helped fund initiatives including FEED NJ, a $30 million effort supporting new and expanded food-access projects throughout the state.

Applications opened Tuesday, September 8, at 10:00 a.m. and will remain open through October 9 at 5:00 p.m.

New Jersey residents receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits will see higher maximum monthly benefit levels beginning October 1, as new federal cost-of-living adjustments take effect.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently released its SNAP benefit levels for the 2027 federal fiscal year. The annual adjustment increases the maximum allotment available to households in New Jersey and the other 47 contiguous states, as well as Washington, D.C.

Under the new amounts, the maximum monthly SNAP allotment for a one-person household will increase from $298 to $306, while the maximum for a family of four will rise from $994 to $1,023.

The new maximum monthly amounts beginning October 1 are:

• 1 person: $306, up from $298
• 2 people: $562, up from $546
• 3 people: $808, up from $785
• 4 people: $1,023, up from $994
• 5 people: $1,217, up from $1,183
• 6 people: $1,463, up from $1,421
• 7 people: $1,616, up from $1,571
• 8 people: $1,841, up from $1,789
• Each additional household member: an additional $225, up from $218

The new amounts will remain in effect from October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2027.

The figures represent the maximum benefit available for each household size and do not mean every SNAP recipient will receive the maximum amount. A household’s actual monthly benefit is calculated based on factors including household size, income and allowable deductions.

New Jersey separately maintains a minimum monthly SNAP benefit of $95 for eligible residents. If a recipient’s federally calculated benefit falls below $95, the state currently provides a supplemental payment to bring the monthly benefit to that amount.

New Jersey has been ranked the second-happiest state in America in a newly released 2026 study, finishing behind only Hawaii.

WalletHub compared all 50 states across 30 measures covering emotional and physical well-being, work environment, finances and community conditions. New Jersey earned an overall score of 67.09, placing it ahead of Utah, Idaho and Maryland.

The Garden State ranked first nationwide for overall emotional and physical well-being. The study found that New Jersey has the nation’s lowest adult depression rate, the lowest share of residents reporting traumatic childhood experiences and the highest percentage of residents reporting supportive relationships.

New Jersey also has the second-lowest separation and divorce rate in the country and the second-highest percentage of households earning more than $75,000 annually. The state additionally ranked seventh-lowest for food insecurity.

Hawaii ranked first overall, while Utah placed third. West Virginia finished last among the 50 states.

New Jersey American Water’s Lead Service Line Replacement Program is continuing in Lakewood this week, with crews now canvassing neighborhoods in the northern section of the township.

According to NJ American Water’s qualified contractor, CDM Smith, crews are currently visiting homes within Census Tracts 7152.01, 7153.03, 7154.03 and 7154.04, covering areas generally located between Brook Road and Hope Chapel Road.

The canvassing is aimed at identifying properties that may have lead or galvanized steel water service lines as part of NJ American Water’s ongoing Lead Service Line Replacement Program.

The initiative follows a 2021 New Jersey law requiring water providers to identify and replace lead and galvanized steel service lines by 2031. A service line is the pipe connecting the water main in the street to a home or building and includes portions owned by both the utility and the property owner.

Residents and property owners can identify their service line themselves and submit photos to NJ American Water, or schedule a free in-person inspection at a convenient time. Inspections generally take approximately 15 minutes.

Authorized canvassers may also visit designated homes to assist residents. Representatives will wear clearly marked, high-visibility vests displaying New Jersey American Water and CDM Smith logos and will carry official identification. They will never ask residents for sensitive personal or financial information or documentation.

NJ American Water has also been sending informational materials in multiple languages directly to potentially affected customers explaining the inspection and identification process.

All canvassing, inspections and replacement work are being carried out solely by New Jersey American Water or its authorized contractors, not by Lakewood Township or another government agency. The effort is, however, being coordinated with Lakewood Township to help with public awareness and safety.

Lakewood residents may continue using their water as usual. NJ American Water says its water continues to meet all state and federal water quality standards, including standards related to lead.

Additional information, including an interactive service line inventory map and instructions for identifying service line materials, is available at newjerseyamwater.com/leadfacts. Residents may also email [email protected] or call CDM Smith at 732-590-4700 with questions.

Lakewood Police say there is no known threat to the public following a Tuesday morning police response in the area of Laurel and Clover after authorities received a report of an individual who may have been armed.

At approximately 9:30 a.m., Lakewood Alerts reported that police were investigating reports of a person with a gun in the Clover Street area, prompting schools throughout the surrounding area to be placed on lockdown as a precaution.

According to a statement subsequently released by Lakewood Police, officers responded to the area of Laurel and Clover and began searching for the individual described in the initial report.

As the search was underway, a nearby school was placed on lockdown out of an abundance of caution.

Police said an individual connected to the incident was later located. However, officers did not observe or recover a weapon.

“At this time, there is no known threat to the public and no indication of an ongoing threat in the area,” Lakewood Police said.

Officers are expected to remain in the area while they continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the initial report. Residents may continue to notice an increased police presence as a precaution.

Lakewood Police said additional information will be released as appropriate.

Lakewood Alerts will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.

Major construction work is getting underway today, Monday, September 7, on the Delaware Memorial Bridge, bringing significant lane restrictions for motorists traveling into New Jersey.

The Delaware River and Bay Authority says crews are beginning preparations for a major joint replacement project on the New Jersey-bound span. Once the new traffic pattern is established, the two right lanes of the northbound span will remain closed around the clock through November 24.

Crews will replace 46 bridge joints as part of the project. The two left New Jersey-bound lanes will remain open, while an additional barrier-separated, cars-only lane will eventually carry New Jersey-bound traffic on the Delaware-bound span. That bypass will be available only to passenger vehicles headed toward the New Jersey Turnpike or Route 40.

Additional nighttime closures are scheduled this week while crews establish the temporary traffic configuration. Drivers using the bridge should expect possible delays and allow extra travel time throughout the construction period.

New Jersey has received a credit rating upgrade, with Kroll Bond Rating Agency raising the state’s rating from A+ to AA-.

The rating agency cited New Jersey’s track record of making full actuarially required pension contributions, progress in reducing long-term liabilities and improvements in state budget management.

The AA- rating is the highest rating KBRA has given New Jersey since it began rating the state in 2015 and marks the state’s first credit rating upgrade under Governor Mikie Sherrill.

State officials say stronger credit ratings can help New Jersey borrow money at more favorable rates when financing major infrastructure and other long-term projects.

Governor Sherrill said the upgrade reflects recent efforts to address the state’s finances, including maintaining a multibillion-dollar surplus, making a full pension payment and reducing the state’s structural budget deficit.