
Man arrested for attempted murder in Somerset County
SOMERVILLE, NJ (Somerset County) – A Somerset County man was arrested for attempted murder that occurred in the early morning hours on Saturday in Somerville, according to Somerset County Prosecutor John P. McDonald.
Justice P. Philip, 23, of Somerset was charged with first-degree attempted murder and second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, McDonald said.
On Feb. 25, at around 3:09 a.m., police to the area of North Gaston Avenue and East High Street for reports of loud noises and vehicles speeding. Upon arrival, officers spoke to an adult male victim who reported that during an argument with Philip, he crashed into the victim’s vehicle and shot a firearm at him, McDonald said.
No injuries were reported, McDonald said.
As a result of the investigation, Philip was identified as the alleged shooter, McDonald said.
On Monday, Feb. 27, Philip voluntarily surrendered himself to authorities without incident at the Franklin Township Police Department. He was charged and then lodged at the Somerset County Jail pending a bail detention hearing, McDonald said.
Anyone with information relating to the attempted murder to contact the Somerset County Prosecutors Office Major Crimes Unit at 908-231-7100 or the Somerville Police Department at 908-725-0331 or via the STOPit app. The STOPit app allows citizens to provide anonymous reports including videos and photos. STOPit can be downloaded to your smart phone for free at the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, access code: SOMERSETNJ. Information can also be provided through the Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477). All anonymous STOPit reports, and Crime Stopper tips will be kept confidential.