Paramus Police Arrest Two Newark Men in Stolen Vehicle Incident at Garden State Plaza

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

PARAMUS, N.J. — Quick action by the Paramus Police Department led to the arrest of two Newark men at Westfield Garden State Plaza on Wednesday, July 16, after they attempted to flee in a stolen vehicle.

The suspects, Donell Carroll, 37, and Elijah Oliver, 32, now face multiple charges after officers recovered a white Acura TLX that had been reported stolen just one day earlier by the Passaic Police Department.

How the Incident Unfolded

Around 8:40 p.m., a Paramus police officer patrolling the busy mall parking lot noticed an unoccupied vehicle with visible signs of tampering. According to authorities, the driver’s door handle was damaged and the keyhole removed—both red flags of attempted auto theft.

After running the vehicle identification number (VIN), police confirmed it was indeed stolen. Officers immediately set up surveillance around the car.

Soon after, Carroll and Oliver approached the vehicle and got inside. Police moved in swiftly:

✅ Carroll, who had entered the driver’s seat, was taken into custody immediately.
✅ Oliver bolted from the scene, running through the parking lot and into a wooded area near Fairfield Drive.

High-Tech Search Leads to Second Arrest

With the help of the Bergen County Sheriff’s K9 Unit and the Paramus Police Drone Unit, officers tracked Oliver to a hiding spot behind a nearby home. He was arrested shortly afterward.

Charges Filed Against Both Suspects

Donell Carroll, 37, faces:

• Receiving Stolen Motor Vehicle (3rd Degree) – N.J.S. 2C:20-10.2A

• Possession of Stolen Property (Disorderly Persons Offense) – N.J.S. 2C:20-7A

• Possession of Motor Vehicle Master Key (4th Degree) – N.J.S. 2C:5-6A(2)

Elijah Oliver, 32, faces:

• Receiving Stolen Motor Vehicle (3rd Degree) – N.J.S. 2C:20-10.2A

• Resisting Arrest by Flight (4th Degree) – N.J.S. 2C:29-2A(2)

After being processed, both men were transported to the Bergen County Jail.

Auto Theft on the Rise in Bergen County

This arrest highlights the ongoing issue of car thefts in North Jersey, particularly targeting mall parking lots and residential neighborhoods. Police departments across the region have urged residents to remain vigilant, lock their vehicles, and avoid leaving key fobs inside.

The Paramus Police Department continues to work closely with neighboring towns and law enforcement agencies to crack down on organized car theft rings operating throughout New Jersey.

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