TRENTON, N.J. — A 26-year-old Trenton man has been arrested and charged in connection with a fatal stabbing that left a Hamilton resident dead earlier this month, Mercer County Prosecutor Janetta D. Marbrey announced Monday.
Jahvel Hale, of Trenton, faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and unlawful possession of a weapon. He was taken into custody without incident on the afternoon of Monday, May 19, by New Jersey Transit Police while riding the River Line in Palmyra.
Prosecutor Marbrey’s office has filed a motion to detain Hale pending trial.
Timeline of the Incident
The investigation began shortly after 7:05 p.m. on Wednesday, May 14, when officers from the Trenton Police Department were called to Capital Health Regional Medical Center following reports of a stabbing victim.
The victim, Jermaine Scott, 48, of Hamilton, had been dropped off by a white, four-door sedan and was suffering from a stab wound to the abdomen. Despite receiving emergency medical care, including surgery, Scott died a short time later.
Investigation and Arrest
A joint investigation was launched by the Mercer County Homicide Task Force and Trenton Police Department. Detectives used witness statements and surveillance footage to quickly identify both the location of the crime and the suspect.
Investigators determined that the stabbing took place on the sidewalk in the 200 block of Tyler Street after a verbal altercation between Hale and Scott escalated. Authorities allege Hale stabbed Scott in the upper torso before fleeing the scene.
Prosecutor Marbrey credited the New Jersey Transit Police for their key role in locating and apprehending the suspect.
Ongoing Investigation
The case remains under active investigation. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Contact Information for Tips:
- Detective James Rickey: (609) 989-6406
- Sergeant Roberto Reyes: (609) 256-0997
- Email: mchtftips@mercercounty.org
