LAKEWOOD – The Lakewood Police Department is increasing police patrol throughout the township today, following the tragic shooting that took six lives in Jersey City yesterday.
“In response to the tragic events that took place in Jersey City yesterday afternoon, the Lakewood Police Department has increased both marked and unmarked patrols town wide,” stated Capt. Gregory Staffordsmith. “This action is in response to preliminary indications that the attack may have been a targeted attack. Chief Meyer would like to ensure the public that we will do whatever is in our power to protect all residents of Lakewood, as well as those traveling our roadways.”
Further details in the shooting incident released on Wednesday revealed that the incident may have been a targeted attack on the kosher bodega in Jersey City. However, Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop declined to classify the incident as anti-Semitic, according to USA Today.
Six people – one police officer, three civilians and two suspects – were killed and two additional officers were struck by gunfire during the shootout and standoff on Dec. 10.
The New York Times described the scene: “For more than an hour, loud exchanges of gunfire rang out in the Greenville neighborhood of Jersey City, which is just across the Hudson River from Lower Manhattan. Helicopters circled overhead as police officers swarmed the streets.
The shooting started around 12:30 p.m. and continued until just before 2 p.m. officials said.
Staffordsmith added, “Municipal Counter Terrorism Coordinator Lt. LeRoy Marshall has been working very closely with our local, county and state counterparts at this time and we will adjust our operations accordingly as we receive additional information. We would like to remind the public that if you see something, say something.”
Lakewood Police extend their thoughts and prayers to the families of those killed and injured and offer their support to fellow brother and sister officers in Jersey City during this difficult time.
