New Jersey Actor Pleads Not Guilty in Stockton University Shooting
Table of Contents
A New Jersey man with a background in acting has entered a plea of not guilty in connection with the shooting of a woman near Stockton University in Galloway Township. The incident, which occurred on September 11, 2025, has resulted in a 31-count indictment against Ernest Heinz, 47, of Port Republic.
Prosecutors have offered Heinz a 15-year prison sentence in exchange for a guilty plea, but his defense attorney asserts his innocence. The case centers around allegations that Heinz shot a female motorist in the face following a road incident.
Road Rage and Alleged Threats
According to reports, the confrontation began when both Heinz and the victim were attempting to merge into a single lane on South Pomona Road. The woman was reportedly attempting to merge when Heinz allegedly sped past her. Minutes later, Heinz allegedly confronted the woman near the intersection of Jimmie Leeds Road and Redwood Avenue, reportedly shouting expletives and threatening, “I’m going to kill you,” before firing a single shot.
The victim sustained a gunshot wound to the face. Authorities initiated a search for Heinz and his vehicle, which was later found to have passed through Stockton’s campus as he returned to his home in Port Republic.
Evidence and Investigation
Following the shooting, authorities allege Heinz returned to his residence and retrieved two bags – one containing a rifle and another from Wawa. These items were subsequently discovered in a storage unit rented by a friend of Heinz, according to investigators. He was apprehended at a relative’s home in Galloway Township and remains in jail awaiting trial.
The prosecution has yet to provide the defense with over 600 pages of discovery materials, including search warrants and investigative reports, as noted by Judge Joseph Levin during Friday’s court appearance. Assistant Atlantic County Prosecutor James Brown indicated these documents detail the findings of their investigation.
Defense Strategy and Potential Downgrade
Heinz’s attorney, Robin Lord, stated that her client “maintains his innocence” and that the initial plea offer is “not an acceptable one.” Lord plans to argue that the charges against Heinz are excessive and do not align with the alleged facts of the case.
“The fact pattern, the allegations of the state, is not an allegation of knowing, intentional attempted murder by anyone,” Lord told reporters. “He’s been overcharged. The facts don’t meet the charges.” She indicated she will file motions following a review of the discovery materials, but did not elaborate on their specific nature.
Heinz, who has previously worked in real estate, also has acting credits, including a small role in the HBO series “The Sopranos.” The Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office has not yet responded to requests for comment.
