TRENTON, N.J. (May 18, 2025) — After several days of disruption that affected thousands of commuters across New Jersey, Governor Phil Murphy and NJ TRANSIT President & CEO Kris Kolluri announced Sunday that a tentative agreement has been reached with the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET)—bringing the statewide rail strike to an end.

Under the agreement, union members will return to work immediately, allowing weekday train service to resume on Tuesday, May 20, at the start of the regular service day.

“We are pleased to announce this tentative agreement, which reflects our commitment to resolving labor disputes in a fair and constructive manner,” said Governor Murphy. “We appreciate the public’s patience and understanding during this disruption.”

System-Wide Preparations Underway

As trains prepare to roll again, NJ TRANSIT crews are working around the clock to conduct final safety inspections of railcars and infrastructure, reposition trains and equipment, and close moveable bridges in anticipation of Tuesday’s restart.

“We are working diligently to restore service and ensure a safe and smooth transition back to regular operations,” said Kris Kolluri, NJ TRANSIT President & CEO.

To support commuters during the transition:

• Contingency bus service will remain available on Monday, May 19, from four regional Park & Ride locations.
• NJ TRANSIT customer ambassadors will be stationed at major hubs to help riders navigate travel options and answer questions.

Officials continue to encourage remote work on Monday and are urging commuters to limit travel to essential purposes until full train service resumes.

For real-time updates, alternate travel options, and contingency planning, riders are advised to visit www.njtransit.com/restart.

Union Vote Still Pending

While the tentative agreement has brought an immediate halt to the strike, final ratification by union members is still pending. However, both state officials and NJ TRANSIT leadership expressed confidence that the deal represents a meaningful step forward for labor relations and long-term system reliability.

Stay tuned to NJ TRANSIT’s official channels for the latest updates and rider alerts.

BORDENTOWN, NJ (May 18, 2025) — A body recovered from the Delaware River near the Bordentown Yacht Club Sunday evening may be connected to a boating accident reported last week in Trenton, according to local authorities.

Emergency responders were called to the area around 1 Farnsworth Avenue shortly before sunset after receiving reports of a body in the water. Upon arrival, police and fire personnel located the victim washed up against the yacht club’s docks.

One firefighter entered the water to assist with the safe recovery of the body, which was later transported from the scene under the supervision of law enforcement and emergency medical services.

Possible Connection to Trenton Boating Incident

Authorities at the scene indicated that the recovered body may be related to an ongoing investigation into a boating incident that occurred last week on the Delaware River near Trenton. Details surrounding that incident have not yet been made public, but investigators are actively working to confirm the identity of the deceased and determine if a link exists between the two events.

“We are investigating the possibility that this recovery is connected to the incident previously reported near Trenton,” said a law enforcement official familiar with the case. “We are awaiting identification and autopsy results.”

Identity Pending and Investigation Ongoing

As of Monday morning, the victim’s identity has not been released, and officials are withholding further information pending notification of the next of kin. An autopsy will be conducted by the Burlington County Medical Examiner’s Office to determine the cause and manner of death.

The recovery has prompted a joint investigation involving local police, fire departments, and marine units, along with regional agencies already involved in the earlier boating incident. Dive teams and river patrols have been active along the Delaware River throughout the past week, searching for individuals possibly involved in the earlier accident.

Community Reacts

The scene at the Bordentown Yacht Club, a popular spot along the river known for recreational boating and scenic views, drew the attention of several bystanders Sunday evening. While details remain limited, the recovery has raised concerns among local residents and river-goers about safety on the water, particularly during the start of the boating season.

Anyone with information related to this case or the prior boating incident is urged to contact investigators through the local police department or relevant river patrol agencies.

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

Trenton, NJ — The City of Trenton has pledged to continue pursuing police reforms, even after the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) officially ended its civil rights investigation into the Trenton Police Department and the City of Trenton.

In a public statement, Mayor W. Reed Gusciora reaffirmed the City’s commitment to both public safety and constitutional protections.

“Despite the recent decision to terminate the DOJ’s investigation, our priority remains clear: to protect our residents while upholding their constitutional rights,” said Mayor Gusciora.

Reform Efforts to Continue

Although the City did not fully agree with all of the DOJ’s findings, Mayor Gusciora acknowledged that improvements are necessary and expressed a strong commitment to ongoing reform.

“We are committed to improving the quality of policing in Trenton,” he said. “Even with the investigation concluded, we plan to move forward with many of the DOJ’s recommendations.”

The Mayor outlined several key initiatives, including:

• Pursuing police department accreditation
• Implementing best practices in law enforcement
• Strengthening community-police relations

These efforts, Gusciora noted, are part of a larger goal: building a police department that is transparent, accountable, and responsive to the needs of Trenton’s diverse communities.

“Our work is far from over,” he added. “We remain focused on fostering trust between our officers and the residents they serve.”

Trenton officials say they are determined to build on the momentum of the past few years and ensure that the city’s public safety practices reflect fairness, respect, and professionalism—regardless of whether a federal investigation is ongoing.

Trenton, N.J. — A once-empty lot in Trenton now stands as a vibrant tribute to a local hero. City officials, community leaders, and members of the New Jersey State Police came together to celebrate the grand opening of Carlos Negron Memorial Park, honoring State Trooper Carlos M. Negron #3656, who was killed in the line of duty in 1984.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony drew a large crowd, including Trenton Mayor W. Reed Gusciora, Interim Parks & Recreation Director Paul Harris, Council President Yazminelly Gonzalez, and Councilwoman At-Large Crystal Feliciano. High-ranking members of the New Jersey State Police—Colonel Patrick Callahan, Lieutenant Colonel Sean Kilcomons, Major Fidiberto Soto, and Captains Harold Ramirez and Eric Wynn—also attended. Trooper Negron’s family, including his 99-year-old mother, were present for the heartfelt dedication.

“This park is dedicated to a true hometown hero—Trooper Carlos M. Negron—whose life and service remind us of the ultimate sacrifice made in the name of public safety,” said Mayor Gusciora. “Let it inspire future generations to lead with integrity, just as Trooper Negron did.”

A Park with Purpose

Construction began in late 2024 and was completed by January 2025 at a total cost of $177,103. The park features an ADA-compliant playground, inclusive ground-level equipment like the Zoom Twist and Dennis Rocker, with additional upgrades planned, including picnic tables and grills.

“This has been a meaningful project and a testament to what we can achieve through community collaboration,” said Interim Parks & Recreation Director Paul Harris. “We’re proud to deliver a space that brings families together and honors one of our own.”

City officials also announced upcoming improvements to other Trenton parks, including Rutherford Avenue Park, Cooper Park, and Eagle Tavern at Wireworks.

Remembering Trooper Carlos Negron

Carlos Negron was born on October 5, 1954, in Santurce, Puerto Rico, and later moved to Trenton, where he lived and worked before joining the U.S. Marine Corps in 1979. He became a New Jersey State Trooper on February 11, 1982, as part of the 98th class.

On May 7, 1984, while helping a disabled van on the New Jersey Turnpike in East Windsor Township, Trooper Negron was tragically shot and killed during a gunfight. He was just 29 years old and had served for 2 years and 3 months. He left behind a wife and an 11-month-old son.

“Trooper Carlos Negron cared about others more than himself,” said Colonel Patrick Callahan of the NJSP. “We will never forget his sacrifice. May every life touched by this space remember the legacy of a true hero.”

Council President Yazminelly Gonzalez emphasized the importance of remembering Negron’s contributions:

“Let this park serve as a living memory to a proud Puerto Rican American, a Marine, a State Trooper, and a man who gave everything for the safety of others.”

Councilwoman Crystal Feliciano added:

“Trooper Negron’s life was taken far too soon. It was a blessing to see his 99-year-old mother present for this moment. My thoughts and prayers go out to all who knew and loved him.”

As children begin to play and families gather, Carlos Negron Memorial Park will stand as a lasting symbol of service, sacrifice, and community strength in the heart of Trenton.

Location: The park is located at the corner of Calhoun Street and Passaic Street in Trenton, New Jersey.

Trenton police are investigating two separate stabbings that occurred just minutes apart on Friday night, leaving two men hospitalized and prompting increased concern from city officials and residents.

The first stabbing took place shortly after 10:00 p.m. in the 300 block of Third Street. Responding officers found a male victim suffering from a stab wound to the abdomen. Emergency Medical Services quickly transported him to the trauma unit at Capital Health Regional Medical Center for urgent treatment.

Less than 10 minutes later, at approximately 10:10 p.m., first responders were called to the 600 block of Hoffman Avenue, where another man was discovered with a stab wound. He too was transported to Capital Health’s trauma center for medical care.

At this time, the conditions of both victims remain unknown, and their identities have not been publicly released. Authorities have not confirmed whether the incidents are related.

Trenton Police are actively investigating both cases and are urging anyone with information to come forward. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage from the areas and canvassing for witnesses who may have seen or heard anything unusual.

City officials are calling for calm as the investigation continues and have assured the public that steps are being taken to maintain safety in the affected neighborhoods.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Trenton Police Department’s anonymous tip line or Crime Stoppers.

This is a developing story. Stay with Peterson’s Breaking News of Trenton for further updates as more details become available.

A black bear was spotted early Sunday morning in Trenton’s Cadwalader Park and later in neighboring Ewing Township, sparking concern among local residents and prompting a swift response from law enforcement and wildlife officials.

According to Trenton Mayor W. Reed Gusciora, the first sighting occurred around dawn in Cadwalader Park, a popular area for morning joggers and families. Shortly after, a similar sighting was reported in Ewing Township, leading officials to believe it is the same bear moving through the region.

Mayor Gusciora addressed the public in a Facebook post, confirming the sightings and assuring residents that New Jersey Fish and Wildlife officials are actively tracking the animal. “If you see the bear, please do not approach it. Contact the police immediately,” he urged.

Authorities have emphasized that while the bear has not shown any signs of aggression or caused injuries, residents should stay alert. People are being advised to keep pets indoors, secure garbage cans, and avoid wooded or brush-filled areas where the bear could be hiding or foraging for food.

Wildlife experts note that while bear sightings in Mercer County are relatively rare, they can occur, especially during the spring and early summer months. This is when young bears often wander in search of food or territory. As suburban development expands into more natural habitats, occasional visits from wildlife are becoming more common.

Trenton police, in coordination with the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife, are monitoring the situation and working to ensure the bear’s safe relocation away from populated neighborhoods.

Residents are encouraged to remain calm but cautious. If anyone encounters the bear, they should not run or attempt to scare it off. Instead, they should back away slowly, avoid eye contact, and immediately report the sighting to local police or wildlife authorities.

This is an ongoing situation. For real-time updates, stay tuned to Peterson’s Breaking News of Trenton and official city channels.

TRENTON, N.J. (May 23, 2025) — As millions of New Jersey residents and visitors hit the roads for the Memorial Day weekend, the New Jersey State Police has launched an expanded enforcement effort aimed at reducing traffic crashes, injuries, and fatalities during the high-travel holiday.

From Friday, May 23 through Tuesday, May 27, an additional 170 state troopers will be assigned to dedicated traffic safety patrols across highways and major roadways. These patrols will operate alongside regular police activity but will specifically target the most common and dangerous behaviors that contribute to roadway incidents.

Troopers will focus on:

• Aggressive driving and road rage
• Speeding
• Distracted driving, including illegal use of handheld devices
• Failure to wear seatbelts
• Driving while intoxicated (DWI)
• Commercial vehicle safety violations

“Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, and every year we see a significant increase in vehicle traffic, especially around the Shore and other vacation destinations,” said a New Jersey State Police spokesperson. “Our goal is not only enforcement but education—reminding drivers that safe behavior behind the wheel can literally save lives.”

According to traffic data from previous years, Memorial Day weekend consistently ranks among the most dangerous for motorists, with a spike in crashes, injuries, and alcohol-related incidents. In response, the State Police is working in partnership with local departments, the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT), and other agencies as part of a broader summer-long safety campaign.

DWI Enforcement to Be Stepped Up Statewide

As part of the weekend initiative, DWI checkpoints and roving patrols will be set up in areas with historically high incidents of impaired driving. Troopers will also be monitoring rest stops and travel hubs for signs of impaired or aggressive driving behaviors.

“We are reminding everyone: if you plan to drink, plan for a sober ride,” the spokesperson added. “Don’t turn a celebration into a tragedy.”

Tips for a Safe Memorial Day Weekend on the Road

• Buckle up—seatbelts save lives.
• Obey speed limits and posted traffic signs.
• Avoid all distractions behind the wheel, including texting or scrolling.
• Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Be patient—holiday traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours.

Drivers are also reminded that using handheld cell phones while driving remains illegal in New Jersey, and violations can result in fines of up to $400 for a first offense.

Statewide Effort to Protect Lives

This enforcement operation is part of a larger statewide push to make roadways safer throughout the busy summer travel season. Officials hope that through increased visibility, public awareness, and tough enforcement, they can help prevent the types of tragedies that have marked past holiday weekends.

“We want everyone to enjoy their holiday weekend, but we also want everyone to arrive home safely,” the spokesperson said.

SEASIDE HEIGHTS, N.J. — As public safety concerns grow at the Jersey Shore, the Aberdeen Police Benevolent Association Local 163 has issued a scathing statement accusing New Jersey state leaders of neglecting the worsening situation in Seaside Heights.

In a press release issued Monday, PBA President Ron Osadacz Jr. criticized what he described as a failure to support law enforcement and control escalating violence and disorder in the popular beach town.

“This is not a surprise,” the statement reads. “It’s the predictable result of policies that have handcuffed police, empowered lawbreakers, and ignored the safety and quality of life of our communities.”

The criticism follows several chaotic holiday weekends in recent years where viral videos have captured large, unruly crowds, fights, and clashes with police in Seaside Heights. These incidents have reignited public debate over how the state is managing public safety and law enforcement at the Shore.

The PBA’s harshest words were aimed at Governor Phil Murphy and Attorney General Matt Platkin, accusing them of offering “lip service” instead of meaningful action. Osadacz claimed their lack of response has only emboldened those causing trouble.

“Simply put, while you’re making political theatre, the state is falling apart,” the statement says.

The union is calling for immediate action, including:

• A greater police presence at the Shore,
• Harsher penalties for unlawful behavior, and
• Real consequences for those who break the law.

The statement also praised the Seaside Heights Police Department for doing the best they can under increasingly difficult and dangerous conditions. Osadacz emphasized that local officers are stretched thin and working in a “hostile environment.”

“It’s time for our so-called leaders to either back the badge or get out of the way,” he added.

At the time of publication, neither Governor Murphy’s office nor the Attorney General’s office had responded to requests for comment.

This latest statement reflects growing frustration among law enforcement groups, who say current state policies are too soft on crime and fail to give officers the resources and support they need.

With summer now underway, all eyes are on how state and local officials will respond—and whether Seaside Heights will receive the reinforcements and reforms police are demanding.

TRENTON, N.J. — Authorities are asking the public’s help in locating a man wanted in connection with a deadly shooting in Trenton earlier this year.

The Mercer County Homicide Task Force has identified Alfonso Inestroza, also known as Franquin Inestroza-Martinez, as the suspect in the fatal shooting of Esteban Vicente Sacalxot on the evening of March 17, 2025.

Police responded to a home on the 300 block of Dayton Street at around 9:30 p.m. after reports of gunfire and bullet holes in a residence. When officers arrived and conducted a welfare check, they found 55-year-old Sacalxot suffering from multiple gunshot wounds to his torso. Despite efforts to save him, Sacalxot was pronounced dead at the scene.

Following an extensive investigation, authorities charged Inestroza with homicide. Law enforcement has issued arrest warrants, and the U.S. Marshals NY/NJ Regional Fugitive Task Force is actively assisting in efforts to locate and apprehend him.

Inestroza is described as a 30-year-old Honduran citizen, approximately 5 feet 3 inches tall, weighing between 135 and 160 pounds. He has brown eyes and black hair. Authorities emphasize that he should be considered armed and dangerous. The public is strongly advised not to approach him under any circumstances.

Anyone with information on Inestroza’s whereabouts is urged to contact Detective Zachary Ortman at (609) 273-2451 or Sergeant William Jett at (609) 331-5010. Tips can also be submitted via email at mchtftips@mercercounty.org. If you see Inestroza, call 911 immediately to report his location.

The Mercer County Homicide Task Force continues to investigate the case, and officials thank the community for their assistance.