By: Najla Alexander
NJ authorities announced a state grand jury has voted not to file any criminal charges at the conclusion of its deliberations regarding the death of Daniel Nevius, 55, of Sicklerville, New Jersey.
The death was investigated by the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA) and presented to New Jersey residents serving on the grand jury in accordance with the Independent Prosecutor Directive of 2019, according to officials.
Officials say that in July 2021, OPIA issued standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure that these grand jury presentations are conducted in a neutral, objective manner, with appropriate transparency regarding the process, consistent with the directive.
The investigation included witness interviews, photographs, a review of body-worn and other camera footage, and autopsy results from the medical examiner, authorities say.
Officials stated this evidence was presented to a state grand jury.
After hearing the testimony and evidence, the grand jury concluded its deliberations on March 4, 2024, and voted “no bill,” meaning the grand jury concluded no criminal charges should be filed against Deptford Police Officer Luke Ivey, officials say.
According to the investigation, officers from the Deptford Police Department responded to a residence on Fox Run Road in Deptford, Gloucester County, following a 9-1-1 call.
Officials stated that the caller stated Mr. Nevius was pointing a firearm at civilians at the scene.
Authorities say officers approached the residence on foot and reported that Mr. Nevius pointed his rifle toward the officers.
Officer Ivey fired his service weapon once at 1:21 p.m., striking Mr. Nevius, accoridng to officials.
Officials said emergency medical personnel responded to render aid to Mr. Nevius, who was pronounced deceased on the scene at 1:55 p.m. Mr. Nevius’ rifle was recovered.
The Attorney General’s Office previously released video footage from this incident, which can be viewed here, officials stated.