URGENT UPDATE: A New Jersey mother is recovering after being shot in the face during a shocking road rage incident last week, which has drawn national attention. Nearly $6,000 has been raised for the victim on GoFundMe, highlighting the community’s support as she navigates the aftermath of this violent encounter.
The incident unfolded on July 27, 2023, when the woman was merging onto a single lane on South Pomona Road in Galloway Township. Police reports detail that her vehicle was cut off by an SUV driven by Ernest Heinz, aged 46, from Port Republic. Both vehicles continued onto Jimmie Leeds Road, where the situation escalated dramatically.
According to police affidavits, Heinz allegedly pursued the woman for about a mile before pulling up next to her at a traffic light outside Stockton University. Witnesses reported that he shouted expletives and made threats before firing at least one shot, which struck the woman in the nose. The incident prompted immediate shelter-in-place orders at the university, lasting approximately three hours as law enforcement searched for the shooter.
Heinz, who is identified as an actor with credits in several “Resident Evil” films and an episode of the acclaimed series “The Sopranos,” has been charged with attempted homicide, aggravated assault, and multiple weapons offenses. His detention hearing, originally scheduled for this week, has now been postponed until Tuesday.
In a heartfelt message shared through her GoFundMe page, the victim expressed her gratitude for surviving the ordeal, stating, “Despite everything, I’m thankful to be alive. I believe God was watching over me and spared my life.” She revealed that the shooting has left her partially blind in one eye, a harrowing reminder of the violence that can erupt unexpectedly.
The victim called 911 shortly after being shot, with police arriving on the scene around 12:52 p.m. They provided assistance while conducting a search for the suspect. Heinz was ultimately apprehended at a residence in Galloway Township around 4 p.m.
Attempts by NJ Advance Media to reach the victim for further comment have been unsuccessful. As the investigation continues, authorities stress the importance of addressing road rage incidents, which can escalate dangerously in mere moments.
The community remains on high alert as they rally around the victim, with many expressing shock that such violence could occur in their neighborhood. The implications of this incident extend beyond the individual, raising questions about road safety and the consequences of aggressive driving behavior.
As developments unfold, the focus remains on the victim’s recovery and the legal proceedings surrounding Heinz. This case serves as a grim reminder of the potential for violence in everyday situations and the critical need for awareness and prevention. Further updates are expected as the legal process continues.
