file photo NJT Police
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Trenton NJ, authorities may have disrupted a potential terrorist plot on Friday when New Jersey Transit Police arrested a man aboard an Amtrak train at the Trenton Transit Center. The suspect was found carrying three handguns and two rifles, marking the culmination of a day filled with strategic investigative work by law enforcement.
photo Newark Penn Thanksgiving
How It Unfolded
The incident began earlier in the day at Newark Penn Station, where New Jersey Transit Police were alerted to an unattended bag. Upon inspection, officers discovered a handgun and a rifle inside the bag.
This discovery sparked an investigation, which led police to identify a passenger who had purchased an Amtrak ticket to Virginia. The suspect’s train was stopped at the Trenton Transit Center, where authorities confronted the individual.
When the suspect resisted, police detained and arrested him. A search revealed that he had three handguns and two rifles in his possession.
Ensuring Passenger Safety
To ensure there were no further threats, a K9 unit conducted a thorough sweep of the train. Once cleared, the train was released to continue its journey.
What We Know About the Suspect
Authorities have released limited information about the suspect, confirming only that he is male. Details regarding whether the firearms were loaded, the suspect’s motives, or potential charges have yet to be disclosed.
Firearms Policy on Amtrak
It is worth noting that Amtrak permits passengers to transport firearms under strict regulations. Firearms must be properly secured, and Amtrak must be notified in advance of the trip. However, the circumstances surrounding the suspect’s firearms appear to have violated these protocols.
Staying Vigilant at Transit Centers
This incident underscores the importance of vigilance in and around transit hubs. New Jersey Transit Police encourage passengers to report suspicious activity and unattended items immediately. Anonymous tips can be sent via text to NJTPD (65873), with messages going directly to the New Jersey Transit Police Department.
A Job Well Done
The swift and decisive action of the New Jersey Transit Police helped prevent what could have been a dangerous situation. This incident serves as a reminder of the critical role law enforcement plays in safeguarding public transportation systems.
Stay informed, stay alert, and always report suspicious activity to help keep our transit systems safe.