New Jersey Man Charged in Double Stabbing Resulting in One Death and Another Arrest
A 32-year-old man from New Jersey has been arrested on charges of murder and related offenses following a double stabbing incident that occurred in Toms River, resulting in one death and the other victim being treated for injuries, according to announcements made by local authorities.
Steven McNeill was taken into custody by Jackson Township police on Friday, just hours after allegedly attacking two male victims at a residence located on Adams Avenue. Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer provided details regarding the incident, which first came to light shortly after 7:20 a.m. when an off-duty police officer from Seaside Park reported an altercation occurring at the home.
Upon arrival at the scene, responding officers found 34-year-old Raniek Mendez suffering from a stab wound to his chest. He was transported to Community Medical Center in Toms River, where he was later pronounced dead. Investigators subsequently discovered a second victim, 30-year-old Roderick Seward from Toms River, who was taken to Ocean University Medical Center by a family member for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.
Following the stabbings, law enforcement agencies collaborated to identify McNeill’s vehicle, which was believed to have fled the scene. He was apprehended in Jackson Township after initially resisting police commands. Once taken into custody by Toms River police, McNeill was charged with murder, attempted murder, eluding, and multiple weapons offenses. He is currently being held at the Ocean County Jail and is awaiting a detention hearing.
In the course of the investigation, detectives executed a search warrant at the Adams Avenue residence, leading to the discovery of a quantity of cocaine in a backpack belonging to Seward, who has now been charged with possession of less than one-half ounce of cocaine with intent to distribute.
Interestingly, detectives revealed that approximately 90 minutes prior to the stabbing, police had responded to the same location for an earlier dispute involving McNeill and Seward. However, officers cleared the scene after McNeill left.
Authorities are still gathering information on the case. While a shell casing was recovered from the scene, and witness reports indicated that a single gunshot was heard, no weapon has yet been found. The investigation into this matter remains active and ongoing as officials seek to uncover further details related to the incident.
Residents and community members are encouraged to provide any additional information that may assist in the ongoing investigation. Media News Source.
