By: Najla Alexander
Authorities in Gloucester County announced that on Wednesday, January 31, at approximately 11:05 p.m., officers from the Westville Police Department received multiple 9-1-1 calls reporting a shooting incident near the 500 block of Broadway in Westville.
Upon arrival, officials stated, officers located the victim, who reported that 19-year-old Raul Leadum of Westville forced his way into the residence and brandished a handgun, subsequently discharging the weapon at close range in the direction of the victim.
Fortunately, the victim was not hit, authorities say.
Officials say Leadum was located and arrested a short time later by Westville Officers.
As a result, Leadum has been charged with the following offenses: Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, Possession of a Weapon for Unlawful Purpose, Burglary, Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, and Criminal Attempt Murder, officials said.
According to officials, Leadum was processed and lodged in the Salem County Correctional Facility pending further proceedings.
This cooperative investigation, officials say, involving a partnership between GCPO and Westville PD personnel, was quickly addressed and progressed successfully due to the tenacity and professionalism of the law enforcement personnel involved.
It should also be noted that two firearms, a rifle and a revolver, have been recovered as a result of the ongoing investigation, officials stated.
Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all of their rights as guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and State Law.
Authorities say this investigation remains ongoing at this time.