New Jersey Father Killed While Protecting Kids from Alleged 17-Year-Old Teen Carjacker

New Jersey Father Killed While Protecting Kids from Alleged 17-Year-Old Teen Carjacker
Image By: NBC10 Philadelphia

After reportedly attempting to steal a car with two small children inside and killing their father in the process, a 17-year-old was taken into custody in Mercer County on Tuesday.

Around 10:20 p.m. on July 12, it happened in Trenton, New Jersey, at the intersection of Garfield and Farragut avenues.

The back hatch of a Dodge Durango was open, and authorities claim that 27-year-old Johny Emmanuel Cruz-Rodriguez was standing close to the rear. His two kids were in the vehicle.

That’s when the police claim a suspect entered the vehicle and attempted to take off.

According to reports, Cruz-Rodriguez attempted to get into the back of the car before the suspect could leave the area. After then, Cruz-Rodriguez was allegedly shot by the suspect.

Two nearby parked cars were struck by the car, according to the authorities.

Read Also: 30 Years to Life for Man Who Followed and Stabbed Woman in Chinatown

Cruz-Rodriguez was declared dead at the scene, although the Mercer County Prosecutor stated that neither child was hurt.

Since then, the young suspect has been charged with many linked crimes, including carjacking, murder, and endangering the welfare of a child.

His name is being concealed, according to investigators, since he is a juvenile.

Reference

profile
With more than two years of expertise in news and analysis, Eileen Stewart is a seasoned reporter. Eileen is a respected voice in this field, well-known for her sharp reporting and insightful analysis. Her writing covers a wide range of subjects, from politics to culture and more.