By: Richard L. Smith
Passaic County officials reported the arrest of Mr. Elijah Ortiz, 20, from Paterson, in relation to a shooting that took place March 12, 2023, in the area of 24 Martha Place, Passaic.
According to Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes, at approximately 10:35 p.m., Passaic Poli encountered a 21-year-old male Passaic resident suffering from a non-fatal gunshot wound and a 23-year-old male Passaic resident.
Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes said the 21-year-old male was transported to Saint Joseph’s University Medical Center in Paterson for treatment. Based on the investigation, Elijah Ortiz was identified as the shooter and a warrant was issued for his arrest.
On March 18, 2023, at approximately noon., Ortiz turned himself in to the Passaic Police Department.
Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes said Ortiz is charged with two counts of Attempted Murder, First Degree; Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, Second Degree; and two counts of Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, Second Degree.
The State filed a motion for pretrial detention that will be heard on March 23, 2023, before the Honorable Joseph A. Portelli.
A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.