By: Richard L. Smith
Authorities have released new details surrounding a deadly encounter involving New Jersey State Police detectives in Moonachie, Bergen County, that left a California man dead Wednesday evening.
According to information released by the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office, the man has been identified as Roberto Castro-Quinonez, 30, of Bakersfield, California.
Investigators said plainclothes State Police detectives were conducting a criminal investigation near Gotham Parkway and West Commercial Avenue at approximately 5:15 p.m. on October 28 when Castro-Quinonez reportedly approached one of the detectives.
Authorities said an interaction followed, prompting a second detective to arrive and assist.
During the encounter, one detective fired his service weapon twice, striking Castro-Quinonez, according to the Attorney General’s Office.
Officers attempted to provide medical assistance, but Castro-Quinonez was pronounced dead at 5:44 p.m.
Officials have not released the identity of the detective who fired the shots or explained what led to the use of deadly force.
The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under investigation by the Attorney General’s Office.