By: Richard L. Smith
Passaic County officials sa, id Mr. Doretero Cruz, 53, Paterson was arrested in relation to a motor vehicle investigation that took place on June 19, 2023, in the area of Market Street and Southard Street.
On June 19, 2023, Paterson Police responded to the area of Market Street and Southard Street on report of a motor vehicle accident involving possible struck pedestrians.
Prosecutor Valdes said Paterson Police located a motor vehicle that had crashed into a residence and a 27-year-old male Paterson resident, and a 30-year-old male Paterson, New Jersey resident on scene suffering from apparent injuries.
According to Prosecutor Valdes, Cruz was located behind the wheel of the motor vehicle and was aided by members of the Paterson Fire Department.
Aid was immediately rendered, and all parties were transported to St. Joseph’s University Medical Center in Paterson.
An investigation revealed that a physical altercation between Mr. Doretero Cruz and the parties which preceded the motor vehicle accident.
According to Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes, Cruz is charged with two Counts of Attempted Murder First Degree, Aggravated Assault Third Degree; Unlawful Possession of a Weapon Fourth Degree; Possession of a Weapon for Unlawful Purpose Third Degree.
Further investigation revealed that Mr. Cruz then used the vehicle intentionally to strike two victims.
Mr. Doretero Cruz was subsequently charged and arrested by members of the Paterson Police Department in the area of Market Street and East 18th Street in the City of Paterson on June 21st at approximately 8:10 p.m.