Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes and Paterson Police Chief Troy Oswald announce that based upon an investigation by the Paterson Police Department, in conjunction with the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office, Eddie Smith, 37 years old, from Passaic, was arrested in relation to the homicide which occurred this morning at 79 Mercer Street in the City of Paterson.
Police charged Mr. Smith with Murder, first degree; Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, third degree; and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, fourth degree.
According to police at approximately 3:41 a.m. on December 5, police responded to 79 Mercer Street in the City of Paterson in response to a report of stabbing.
Upon their arrival officers located 40 year- old Shatina Adams, from Paterson, lying inside the residence with apparent stab wounds. Ms. Adams was transported to St. Joseph’s Regional Medical Center in Paterson where she was later pronounced deceased.
The investigation revealed that Ms. Adams and Mr. Smith have previously been involved in a dating relationship.
Smith had come to the residence to speak to Adams, and during the conversation an argument ensued.
Officials say at that time, Smith stabbed Adams multiple times and fled the apartment.
Smith was taken into custody this afternoon in the City of Passaic with the assistance of officers from the Passaic Police Department.
The State has filed motion for pretrial detention in this matter that will be heard by a Superior Court Judge at a date and time to be determined by the Court.
A criminal complaint is merely an accusation.
Despite this accusation, the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office asks anyone with additional information about this incident to contact us on our tips line at 1-877-370-PCPO or tips@passaiccountynj.org or contact the Paterson Police Detective Bureau at 973-321-1120.