By: Richard L. Smith
61-year-old Mr. Thomas E. Carter of Highland Park has been arrested and charged with attempted murder.
Somerset County and Franklin Township Public Safety Director Quovella M. Maeweather and Prosecutor McDonald announced the arrest stemming from a violent altercation that took place on the evening of Sunday, March 24, near Hamilton Street in Franklin Township.
The series of events leading to the arrest began when Franklin Township Police were alerted by security personnel from a nearby trauma hospital about a victim with a severe stab wound.
The victim, a resident of New Brunswick, sustained injuries deemed potentially life-threatening and was rushed into emergency surgery.
Officials said once stable, the victim provided detectives from the Franklin Township Police Department and the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit with a detailed account of the incident.
The investigation unveiled that the stabbing occurred during a verbal dispute in Franklin Township, pinpointing Thomas Carter as the assailant.
Prosecutor McDonald detailed that on March 26, dedicated detectives tracked down and apprehended Carter in Highland Park without any complications.
He now faces serious charges, including 1st-degree Attempted Murder, 3rd-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, and 4th-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon.
Following his arrest, Carter was taken to the Somerset County Jail, where he awaits a detention hearing to address the charges filed against him.
The arrest has prompted a call to action from Prosecutor McDonald, Chief Roman, and Director Maeweather, who are urging anyone with additional information about this harrowing incident to come forward.
They encourage witnesses or anyone with relevant knowledge to contact the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit at (908) 231-7100 to assist in furthering the investigation.
This case underscores the committed efforts of local law enforcement in ensuring the safety and security of Somerset County residents, demonstrating their resolve to hold individuals accountable for acts of violence within the community.