By: Richard L. Smith
The NJ Attorney General Office confirmed that a Hamilton Township police officer remains hospitalized after being shot last night while responding to a domestic incident in Mercer County, where a civilian was also fatally wounded.
The incident is currently under the scrutiny of the prosecutor's office, and the investigation will adhere to established protocols.
The Attorney General’s Office is investigating a fatal police-involved shooting that occurred on Friday in Hamilton Township in Mercer County, New Jersey. One adult male civilian sustained fatal injuries.
One Hamilton officer sustained multiple gunshot wounds and remains hospitalized. Their identities are not being released at this time.
According to the preliminary information, officers from the Hamilton Township Police Department responded to a residence on Orchard Avenue after a 911 call involving a domestic incident was received at approximately 10 p.m.
During the encounter, a civilian armed with a rifle exchanged gunfire with two officers at approximately 10:10 p.m.
The civilian was fatally wounded and pronounced dead at the scene. One officer was also struck and is being treated in a hospital for his injuries.
A firearm was recovered near the civilian.
The community's thoughts are with the injured officer and his partner, who bravely responded to the scene last night, as well as with the family of the deceased, who have suffered an unimaginable loss.
The entire Hamilton Township Police Department and those close to the individuals involved are also being held in thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the daily risks that law enforcement officers face to ensure the safety of our communities.
It also highlights the dangerous role that firearms play in domestic incidents, with statistics showing that access to a firearm increases the likelihood of a homicide in such situations by 1,000%.
In light of this incident, New Jersey is committed to working collaboratively to disrupt cycles of violence, end gun violence, protect law enforcement officers, and support victims and survivors of violence in their journey to rebuild their lives.
For those experiencing domestic violence or concerned about the presence of firearms in the home, support is available around the clock at 1-800-572-SAFE (7233).
Individuals worried about a household member in crisis and the risk posed by firearms are urged to contact their local police department, County Prosecutor’s Office, or the prosecutor's office to inquire about obtaining an Extreme Risk Protective Order.
