ATLANTIC COUNTY, N.J. (KYW Newsradio) — Police have arrested a suspect in connection with a shooting near Stockton University’s campus Thursday afternoon that left a woman injured.
The university issued a shelter-in-place alert to students and staff around 1:20 p.m., saying there was police activity near campus. Those outside were advised to find shelter indoors, and drivers were urged to avoid the area.
Just after 2 p.m., there were reports of gunfire. According to police, a woman was shot in the face during an apparent road rage incident outside the entrance of the university’s Galloway Township campus. The woman called 911 to report a man with a blonde ponytail had shot her. He then drove north onto Vera King Ferris Drive in a white Honda CR-V SUV.
The woman, identified as Maritza Arias-Galva, was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment, where she's listed in stable condition.
The shelter-in-place was lifted just after 4 p.m. The university cancelled classes for the rest of the day and said they would resume as usual on Friday morning. Around 5 p.m., police arrested 46-year-old actor Ernest Heinz without incident at a residence in the Blue Heron Pines Development.
Heinz was charged with criminal attempt homicide, aggravated assault with a firearm and related offenses.
In a statement, Stockton's president said, while the shooting did not occur on campus, they will always prioritize safety.
"We will always communicate with transparency. And we will continue to navigate challenges together, grounded in care, resilience, and trust.
"I recognize how unsettling it can be to receive an alert like that, and I want to commend you for your patience, understanding, and commitment to following the guidance provided.
"I also want to acknowledge that even when no direct threat materializes, events like this can leave a lasting emotional impact. If you're feeling unsettled or anxious, please don’t hesitate to reach out."
Counseling services are available for those who need it.