Executive Summary
- Melvin J. Cruz-Salmoran, 19, was arrested in Neptune by an FBI task force and Howell detectives.
- The suspect faces charges of carjacking and aggravated assault involving a deadly weapon.
- Authorities state an Asbury Park cab driver was slashed across the face during the January 16 incident.
HOWELL, N.J. – Howell Township detectives, working in conjunction with an FBI task force, have arrested a 19-year-old suspect in connection with a violent carjacking that resulted in severe injuries to a cab driver, according to local authorities.
Law enforcement officials report that Melvin J. Cruz-Salmoran, a Mexican national, was taken into custody on Tuesday at a residence in Neptune. Following his arrest, Cruz-Salmoran was charged with carjacking, aggravated assault, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and a weapons offense.
The charges stem from an incident on January 16 involving an Asbury Park cab driver. Police allege that during the course of the carjacking, the driver was slashed across the face with a knife. Following the apprehension, the suspect was transported to the Monmouth County Jail, where he remained detained as of Wednesday.
Investigative Outlook and Legal Proceedings
The involvement of a federal task force alongside local detectives highlights the heightened resources being deployed to address violent crimes involving significant bodily injury. As the case moves to the prosecutorial phase, the investigation will likely focus on forensic evidence recovered from the scene and witness testimony regarding the assault. It is important to note that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
