URGENT UPDATE: A New Jersey mother is recovering after being shot in the face during a shocking road rage incident last Thursday. The victim, who has been identified as a single mother, suffered severe injuries and is now partially blind in one eye.
According to authorities, the incident unfolded at around 12:52 p.m. near Stockton University in Galloway Township. The woman was merging onto South Pomona Road when her vehicle was abruptly cut off by an SUV driven by Ernest Heinz, 46, of Port Republic. Following a tense exchange, Heinz allegedly fired a shot at the woman’s car while stopped at a traffic light, striking her in the face.
The immediate aftermath prompted a swift police response, including a shelter-in-place order at the university that lasted for approximately three hours. Police apprehended Heinz at a residence in Galloway Township around 4 p.m. the same day. He now faces charges of attempted homicide, aggravated assault, and weapons offenses. A detention hearing originally scheduled for this week has been postponed until Tuesday.
Multiple reports have identified Heinz as an actor, known for appearances in several films, including “Resident Evil” and an episode of the acclaimed series “The Sopranos.” A spokesperson for the Screen Actors Guild declined to confirm his acting credentials.
As of Friday, nearly $6,000 has been raised through a GoFundMe campaign organized by friends of the victim. In a heartfelt message shared on the platform, the woman expressed her gratitude for surviving the ordeal, stating, “Despite everything, I’m thankful to be alive. I believe God was watching over me and spared my life.” She emphasized the profound impact this incident has had on her and her family, reinforcing the alarming reality that such violence can occur unexpectedly.
The Galloway Township Police Department continues to investigate the incident, and more details are expected to emerge in the coming days. As the community rallies around the victim, this case highlights not only the dangers of road rage but also the urgent need for awareness and support for those affected by such violence.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as more information becomes available.