The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office has announced a juvenile from Newark has been arrested and charged with two counts of attempted murder in connection with the stabbing of two males in an attack in Point Pleasant Beach.
The stabbing happened Monday around 4 p.m. near Jenkinson’s Aquarium during the Labor Day holiday.
According to
police, the two men, identified as Alex Galdamez, 22, and William Mazariegogo, 18, both of West Haverstraw, New York, were taken to Jersey Shore Medical Center in Neptune. Both sustained multiple stab wounds, and are listed in serious, but stable condition.
Video taken shows police officers, lifeguards and other beach patrol members running toward the scene after hearing screams and a commotion. Witnesses were surprised to see such violence during a beautiful and relaxing holiday at the Jersey Shore.
“I saw the people running and I got closer to where the activity was, and I saw a man sitting on a blanket,” says Georgia Dentner, of Point Pleasant Beach. “He was hunched over and people yelling and screaming for help.”
Dentner says she also watched as the victims were taken away on stretchers.
Authorities say the stabbing was an isolated incident, and there is no threat to other beachgoers.
The juvenile was also charged with possession of a weapon, specifically a knife, for an unlawful purpose, among other charges.The investigation revealed the juvenile was responsible for both stabbings. Initially, there were two individuals in custody. There is no word yet on a motive.
The juvenile is being detained in the Ocean County Juvenile Detention Center. The prosecutor says the law prohibits the release of any additional information because of his age.