A suspected armed carjacking suspect was arrested today by Essex County sheriff’s officers.
According to authorities, uniformed officers from his department’s Patrol Division observed Robert Lilly, 22, of Newark, driving a 2007 Range Rover wagon on South Orange Avenue and South 9th Street around 12 Monday afternoon.
The vehicle, according to police, was reportedly taken by physical force from an adult male victim who resides in the area of Society Hill apartments sometime around 7 a.m.
The suspect vehicle was followed by our officers, Sheriff Fontoura noted.
When the suspect noticed the marked cruiser behind him, he accelerated and crashed the vehicle into two other vehicles.
Lilly attempted to run from the scene by climbing out of the Range Rover through the sunroof.
However, he was ultimately arrested a short distance away by our officers on foot.
A semi-automatic handgun was recovered, along with marijuana, officials added.
One of the arresting sheriff’s officers suffered minor injuries.
He was taken to University Hospital where he received stitches and was released.
The driver of one of the other vehicles involved in the crash was taken to University Hospital and was treated and released.
Lilly was transported East Orange General Hospital where he is also being treated for minor injuries associated with the crash.
To date, Lilly has been charged with the unlawful possession of a weapon, the unlawful possession of hollow point bullets, aggravated assault by automobile, eluding, resisting arrest by physical force and receiving stolen property.
Other charges, including carjacking, are pending against the suspect.
Following his medical treatment, the suspect will be lodged at the county jail where he will await a bail hearing.