The incident happened near a university campus in Galloway Township, and police arrested the suspect on attempted murder charges.
Ernest W. Heinz, an actor known for his roles in two Resident Evil video games, was arrested in connection with the shooting of Maritza Arias-Galva. The event took place near the Stockton University campus in Galloway Township, New Jersey. Arias-Galva called 911 to report that she had been shot in the face by a driver who then fled the scene. Thanks to her description, police found and caught Heinz later that day at a home in the Blue Heron Pines Development area.
Heinz faces charges of attempted murder, aggravated assault with a firearm, aggravated assault, possession of a weapon, and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose. Arias-Galva was taken to Atlanticare Regional Medical Center, where doctors said she is in stable condition and recovering. She described the attacker as a white man with blond hair in a ponytail, driving a white Honda SUV.
Police thanked several groups for their help in the investigation, including the Stockton University Police Department, Atlantic County Sheriff’s Office, Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office, New Jersey State Police, and other Atlantic County agencies. Police Chief Eric B. Hendrickson praised the team’s professional work and said they support the community and the victim.
How Did the Incident Happen?
According to court records, the shooting occurred around 12:50 p.m. Arias-Galva was reportedly cut off on the road and threatened with death by the attacker, who then shot her in the face. She told police that after being cut off, the man threatened her verbally before firing. Heinz then drove north along Vera King Ferris Drive on the university campus and left the scene.
Arias-Galva gave clear details about the attacker and the vehicle, which helped police quickly identify and arrest Heinz in Galloway Township. After the arrest, he was taken to the Atlantic County Justice Facility. Police searched three homes in Port Republic, one more home in Galloway Township, and two vehicles linked to the case.
Who Is Ernest W. Heinz?
According to IMDb, Heinz worked as an actor until 2014 and appeared in Resident Evil video games. (Galloway Township Police Department)
Based on his IMDb profile, Heinz acted until 2014, with credits in Resident Evil video games and a role in the 2011 movie “J. Edgar.” There is no public information about new projects from the accused, or recent statements from him or his representatives.
Arias-Galva told The Philadelphia Inquirer that she tried to avoid a fight during the incident. Her main worry while calling for help was the safety of her children, as she is their only family member in New Jersey. She said that after being shot, she stayed conscious and called the authorities, which helped them respond right away.