Sat Sep 13 10:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Actor Charged with Attempted Homicide in Road Rage Shooting Near Stockton University

**GALLOWAY TWP., N.J.** – Ernest Wesley Heinz, 46, an actor with minor roles in film, television, and video games, has been arrested and charged with attempted homicide following a road rage shooting that prompted a lockdown at Stockton University on Thursday.

Galloway Township Police responded to a 911 call reporting a shooting on W. Jimmie Leeds Road near Redwood Avenue around 12:52 p.m. According to police, the incident occurred at a red light after an apparent traffic dispute.

“As they approached the light, the male yelled at her, reached his hand out the window and fired a single shot,” said Capt. Mark D’Esposito of the Galloway Twp. Police Dept.

Court documents reveal the victim told police she was attempting to merge with her turn signal on when the suspect vehicle cut her off. At the red light, the suspect allegedly cursed at her, threatened to kill her, and then fired a handgun, striking her in the upper nose.

Despite the injury, the victim remained conscious and was able to provide police with a description of her attacker and his vehicle, a white Honda SUV. “Fortunately, it didn’t look like it caught anything major and she was able to maintain consciousness and speak to our officers. We’re very grateful she’s okay,” D’Esposito stated.

The suspect fled north on Vera King Ferris Drive, leading police to issue a shelter-in-place order for Stockton University as they searched the area. The lockdown lasted approximately three hours before being lifted.

“I recognize how unsettling it can be to receive an alert like that, and I want to commend you for your patience, understanding, and commitment to following the guidance provided,” said Stockton University President Joe Bertolino in a statement following the incident.

Detectives identified Heinz as the suspect and took him into custody later Thursday at a residence in the Blue Herron Pines Development. Search warrants were executed at multiple residences in Port Republic and Galloway Township, as well as on two vehicles.

Heinz is currently being held at the Atlantic County Justice Facility and is scheduled to appear in court for a detention hearing next week. Authorities have been unable to reach his family or an attorney for comment.

Stockton University resumed normal operations on Friday.

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