By: Tracie Carter
Three suspects, including two teenagers, have been arrested in connection with a violent carjacking that took place late Friday, June 20, 2025, outside PJ Whelihan’s restaurant on Hurffville-Crosskeys Road, authorities announced.
Around 11:16 p.m., three victims were returning to their 2021 gray BMW M5 when they were confronted in the parking lot by two masked individuals.
Police said one suspect wielded an AR-15-style rifle, while the other pointed a handgun, demanding the vehicle’s key fob.
The suspects fled the scene with the car, aided by a female getaway driver in a blue Honda Civic that was later confirmed stolen from Pennsylvania.
The Civic crashed near the Wawa on Altair Drive shortly after the robbery. Witnesses told police the driver fled the scene in the stolen BMW, prompting a wide-ranging investigation.
Detectives Matthew Laudenslager and Matthew Franchi led the investigation, ultimately identifying and arresting two juveniles and one adult suspect.
Charges Filed:
• Juvenile Male, 16, of Turnersville – Armed carjacking, weapon offenses, and conspiracy.
• Juvenile Female, 16, of Sicklerville – Carjacking, receiving stolen property, and conspiracy.
• Job A. Smith, 19, with ties to Turnersville, Glassboro, and Hi-Nella – First-degree carjacking, multiple weapons charges, and conspiracy.
The juveniles were arrested on June 26 and sent to Essex County Juvenile Detention. Smith was taken into custody on July 9 and is being held at the Salem County Correctional Facility awaiting a detention hearing.
Washington Township Police Chief Patrick Gurcsik praised the joint effort that led to the arrests. “This was a dangerous and brazen crime,” he said. “Thanks to the swift work of our patrol officers, detectives, and law enforcement partners, we were able to bring those responsible to justice without injury to the public.”
The investigation is ongoing, and additional charges may be filed. Authorities encourage anyone with information to contact Detective Laudenslager at (856) 589-6664 ext. 1176.