By: Najla Alexander
Authorities in Ocean County announced that on July 19, Louis Gargiso, 38, of Jackson Township, was charged with Murder, Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon in connection with the death of Robert Sunris, 74, also of Jackson Township, which occurred in Jackson Township on July 19.
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer said that on July 19, at approximately 5:55 a.m., the Jackson Township Police responded to a residence on Maple Street for a report of an unconscious male.
Officials stated that responding officers discovered the deceased body of a male, later identified as Robert Sunris, with an apparent stab wound.
Officers also observed a knife near the body, officials say.
According to officials, on July 19, the Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office performed a post-mortem examination of Mr. Sunris.
The examination determined that the cause of Mr. Sunris’ death was a stab wound, and the manner of his death was homicide, officials said.
Authorities say a thorough investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Jackson Township Police Department, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit determined that Gargiso and Mr. Sunris were roommates at the Maple Street residence.
Officials said further investigation revealed that Gargiso was responsible for Mr. Sunris’ death.
Gargiso was taken into custody at the scene without incident, according to officials.
Officials say he was transported to the Ocean County Jail, where he is presently lodged pending a detention hearing.