Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato and Lakewood Police Chief Robert Lawson today announced the arrest of Filiberto Jimenez-Villanueva, 29, of Lakewood, on a charge of First Degree Murder in the death of Adan Anaya Morales,56, of Lakewood. Filiberto was taken into custody by members of the Lakewood Police Department and the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Major Crimes Unit yesterday (7/16) at approximately 8 am at the corner of Monmouth Avenue and 2nd Street in Lakewood while awaiting a ride to work.

The charges stem from an investigation which began on Sunday, July 12, 2015. At approximately 6:00 p.m. on that date, a verbal altercation occurred between the victim, Adan Anaya Morales, and the defendant in the area of 118 Monmouth Avenue in Lakewood. The defendant ultimately struck Mr. Morales and knocked him to the ground. The defendant then fled the area. A concerned citizen discovered Mr. Morales unconscious in the parking lot of 118 Monmouth Avenue. Mr. Morales was transported to Jersey Shore Medical Center where he succumbed to his injuries on July 13, 2015, at approximately 10:42 a.m.

An autopsy conducted by Dr. Ragasa determined that the victim died as a result of massive head injuries. The manner of death was ruled a homicide.

The Honorable James M. Blaney, J.S.C., set bail in the amount of $750,000.00 with a no 10% option. The case is being prosecuted by Senior Assistant Prosecutor Joseph F. Mackolin and Assistant Prosecutor Ashley Tito.

Murder carries a penalty of imprisonment for a minimum of 30 years and a maximum term of life. Anyone with information concerning this case may contact Detective Chase Messer of the Lakewood Police Department at (732) 363-0200 or Detective Raymond Gardner of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit at (732) 929-2027.

The media and the public are reminded that every criminal defendant is presumed innocent unless and until they are proven guilty in court.

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