Ocean County Prosecutor Brad Billhimer and Jackson Township Police Chief Matthew Kunz announced in a joint press release today that a 17 year-old juvenile from Seaside Heights was charged with Theft of Moveable Property, Eluding, Obstruction, and Resisting Arrest by Means of Flight in relation to the theft of two vehicles last week.

On August 3, 2023, at approximately 10:45 p.m., officers from the Jackson Township Police Department responded to the area of Imperial Place for a report of two stolen motor vehicles.

At approximately 11:00 p.m., Jackson Township Police Officers observed the stolen vehicles traveling northwest on Leesville Road at the intersection of Freehold Road.

Officers attempted to effectuate a motor vehicle stop as the vehicles attempted to flee.  A few seconds later, one of the stolen vehicles operated by the 17 year-old juvenile lost control and crashed into a tree – bursting into flames.  Following the crash, the juvenile attempted to flee on foot but was apprehended.  The juvenile was taken into custody and is presently detained in the Ocean County Juvenile Detention Center.

Prosecutor Billhimer and Chief Kunz commend the Jackson Township Police Department, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Vehicular Homicide Unit, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation.