HOWELL, NJ – The Howell Township Police Department reported a prompt and successful response to an armed robbery that took place in the Candlewood Shopping Plaza near Five Guys Burgers on February 13, just after 3 PM.
The victim was there to sell designer sneakers through an internet-based transaction when the buyer, turning assailant, brandished a firearm and forcibly took the sneakers without payment, discharging the weapon during the altercation.
The perpetrator fled the scene in a vehicle described by the victim as resembling a gray Amazon delivery van. However, within minutes of the report, Officer Nicholas Matteo spotted a vehicle matching the description and conducted a high-risk traffic stop at Regal Plaza. The sole occupant of the vehicle, who matched the suspect’s detailed description provided by the victim, was detained by police.
A search of the vehicle, conducted with the driver’s consent, led to the discovery of a 9mm handgun and the stolen sneakers.