Police have arrested a 19-year-old suspect in the murder of a New Jersey police officer, the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office said Sunday morning.
Jahmell W. Crockman is accused of shooting Lakewood Patrolman Christopher Matlosz Friday afternoon after the officer drove up to him and began to question him.
New Jersey State Police, the U.S. Marshall's service, and a specialized tactical high-risk entry unit worked together to make the arrest at 6:30 a.m. Sunday.
Police said they learned that Crockham was holed up in an apartment in Camden. State police and Marshals were sent to the Crestbury Apartments at 2553 South 8th Street in Camden. Authorities were able to arrest the suspect without incident.
“This is not a time of celebration, this is now the time to focus on grief and the arrest of the suspect,” Chief Robert Lawson said. “It brings some small solace to the officers and the family of Officer Matlosz.
Numerous police departments across southern New Jersey also contributed to the investigation.
"Most importantly, I would like to acknowledge the assistance of many citizens who stepped forward with information that was helpful to this investigation," said Ocean County prosecutor Marlene Lynch Ford, in a press release.
Authorities have said 27-year-old Matlosz drove up to Crockam as Crockam was walking and began speaking with him in a non-confrontational manner when the suspect suddenly stepped back, pulled out a handgun and shot the officer three times.
The suspect fled on foot, touching off a massive house-to-house search that involved armored vehicles, officers clad in body armor, teams of search dogs and helicopters.
A judge set Crockam's bail at $5 million cash. He is expected to appear before a judge on Tuesday, according to police.
A candlelight vigil will be held at the Lakewood Police Department at 7:30 p.m. in honor of Officer Matlosz.
A viewing will be held Wednesday from 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. at Lakewood Funeral Home. Officer Matlosz' funeral will take place on Thursday at St. Mary of the Lake Church in Lakewood.
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