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Man Suspected of Three Murders, Two Carjackings Arrested in New Jersey
A 26-year-old man, linked to three murders in Pennsylvania and two carjackings, was apprehended in Trenton, bringing relief to communities across two states.
In a coordinated effort that spanned across state lines, law enforcement agencies in New Jersey, along with their counterparts in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, have successfully captured Andre Gordon Jr., a 26-year-old man suspected of a violent crime spree that left three dead, including a teenager, and involved two carjackings. The arrest occurred in Trenton, New Jersey, marking the end of a series of events that had terrorized residents in both states.
The saga began on the morning of Saturday, March 16, 2024, when Gordon allegedly embarked on a deadly rampage, initiating his spree with a carjacking in Trenton's Donnelly Homes parking lot at around 8:40 a.m. He then reportedly drove to Falls Township, Pennsylvania, where he executed the fatal shootings in two separate locations, including the tragic loss of a 13-year-old girl.
Following the shootings, Gordon is accused of committing a second carjacking in Morrisville, Pennsylvania, before returning to Trenton and entering a residence on Phillips Avenue. His apprehension later that day, at approximately 5 p.m. on New York Avenue, was a culmination of intense law enforcement activity that ensured no further harm to the public.
Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin expressed his alarm at the sheer scale of violence attributed to Gordon, emphasizing the broader issue of illegal firearms contributing to such tragedies. He praised the swift and coordinated response of law enforcement, which prevented further violence.
Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police, highlighted the challenges and dangers faced by officers, thanking the multitude of agencies that contributed to the resolution of this critical situation.
Echoing sentiments of shock and tragedy, J. Stephen Ferketic, director of the New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice, and Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri commended the collaborative effort that led to Gordon's arrest. They assured the public of their commitment to justice, emphasizing cooperation with Bucks County authorities to address the crimes committed across state lines.
Trenton Police Department's Police Director, Steve Wilson, expressed his condolences to the victims and their families, underscoring the comprehensive response from local, county, and state authorities that averted further danger.
The successful apprehension of Gordon was marked by the mobilization of approximately 60 officers from the Mercer County Rapid Response Partnership, showcasing an impressive display of interagency cooperation involving various law enforcement bodies.
Gordon now faces multiple charges in New Jersey, including first-degree carjacking and unlawful possession of a weapon, with the possibility of severe penalties if convicted.
The charges against him underscore the gravity of his alleged actions while reminding the public of the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.
This arrest not only brings a measure of justice for the victims and their families but also serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by communities and law enforcement in combating violent crime.
