By: Richard L. Smith
The New Jersey Attorney General's Office has launched an investigation into the death of an adult male civilian who died shortly after being arrested on April 19 in Toms River. 
The man, whose identity has not been disclosed, was being apprehended for outstanding warrants when the incident occurred.
According to preliminary reports, the incident unfolded around 1:00 p.m. at a gas station located on Route 37 near West End Avenue.
The joint operation involved officers from the Island Heights and Toms River Police Departments, as well as the Ocean County Sheriff's Office.
The arrest took a critical turn when the suspect, who was in his parked vehicle, reportedly refused to exit and informed the officers of a medical episode he was experiencing.
Despite his refusal, law enforcement officers were able to detain him and provided immediate medical assistance at the scene.
He was subsequently transported to Community Medical Center in Toms River, where he was pronounced dead at approximately 2:25 p.m.
Under New Jersey law, specifically N.J.S.A. 52:17B-107(a)(2) enacted in 2019, the Attorney General's Office is required to investigate any death occurring during an encounter with law enforcement officers or while the individual is in custody.
The law further mandates that all such cases be presented to a grand jury to determine whether the evidence warrants an indictment against the officers involved.
The community and local authorities await the findings of the investigation, which will determine the next steps in this incident.
The outcome of the grand jury's review will be closely monitored, as it will address questions regarding the circumstances of the arrest and the subsequent death of the civilian.