Trenton, New Jersey — A late-night shooting in Trenton left one man dead and several others injured, including two police officers, according to Mercer County Prosecutor Janetta D. Marbrey. The incident unfolded around 11:25 p.m. on Friday when officers were dispatched to investigate a Shot Spotter alert that indicated multiple gunshots in the vicinity of North Olden and Ohio avenues.
As officers proceeded to respond, their patrol vehicle was struck by a car driven by 41-year-old Andrew Coates, who had sustained gunshot wounds and lost control of his vehicle. Coates was rushed to Capital Health Regional Medical Center but succumbed to his injuries hours later.
The chaotic scene also resulted in injuries to a civilian bystander, who was struck by Coates’ car and required hospitalization. Meanwhile, two officers from the Trenton Police Department incurred non-life-threatening injuries during the incident and were treated at a nearby hospital.
While the investigation was underway, a man with a gunshot wound to his leg arrived at the hospital, where he was reported to be in stable condition. Authorities are working to gather further details about the circumstances surrounding the shooting incident.
The gunfire led to property damage in the area, impacting two unattended vehicles and a residence on Indiana Avenue, though no occupants were harmed. To ensure a thorough investigation, the Mercer County Homicide Task Force, the Shooting Response Team, and local police are collaborating.
Detectives are urging anyone who may have information regarding the shooting to come forward. They can contact MCHTF Detective Jennifer Eyster at (609) 789-7346 or Sgt. Roberto Reyes at (609) 256-0997. Anonymous tips may also be submitted via the Mercer County Prosecutor’s website.
As details continue to emerge, the community grapples with the ramifications of yet another violent incident, raising concerns about public safety and the ongoing issue of gun violence in urban areas.