JACKSON TOWNSHIP MAN CHARGED WITH MURDER AND ATTEMPTED MURDER IN TOMS RIVER STABBINGS
TOMS RIVER, NJ — In a shocking series of violent events, Steven McNeill, a 32-year-old man from Jackson Township, has been charged with Murder, Attempted Murder, Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, and several other related offenses in connection with a brutal altercation on May 9, 2025 in Toms River, New Jersey. McNeill, who was taken into custody later that day, is facing serious charges following the death of Raniek Mendez, 34, of Brick Township, and the stabbing of Roderick Seward, 30, of Toms River.
The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, led by Bradley D. Billhimer, announced the charges on May 9, detailing a violent chain of events that began earlier that morning and ultimately led to McNeill’s arrest. The incident has left the community shaken, and authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the stabbings and the events that transpired.
The Violent Altercation in Toms River
The series of violent incidents began early on the morning of May 9, 2025, at approximately 5:50 AM, when Toms River Township Police responded to a 911 call reporting an altercation at a residence on Adams Avenue in Toms River. Officers learned that Steven McNeill and Roderick Seward had been involved in a physical confrontation at the residence. After McNeill left the scene, law enforcement arrived, and the situation was briefly addressed. No arrests were made at that time, and the officers cleared the scene after speaking with those involved.
However, the situation escalated later that morning. At 7:20 AM, a second 911 call was placed from the same residence, this time from an off-duty Seaside Park Class II Police Officer who had been leaving a nearby convenience store. The officer reported that a stabbing had occurred at the residence. When officers arrived, they found Raniek Mendez suffering from a stab wound to his chest. Tragically, Mendez was transported to Community Medical Center in Toms River, where he succumbed to his injuries.
A second victim, Roderick Seward, was also found at the scene with stab wounds. Seward was treated for non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to Ocean University Medical Center in Brick Township by a family member.
The Fleeing Suspect and Police Pursuit
As the investigation unfolded, Toms River Township Police, the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit worked collaboratively to piece together the details of the events leading up to Mendez’s death and Seward’s injury.
Law enforcement soon identified the vehicle that had fled the scene of the stabbings. The vehicle was tracked to Jackson Township, where officers located the car and attempted to conduct a motor vehicle stop. The driver of the vehicle initially failed to comply with police commands, refusing to pull over. After a brief period of eluding officers, the vehicle eventually came to a stop. The driver, later identified as Steven McNeill, was taken into custody without incident.
Charges Against Steven McNeill
Following his arrest, McNeill was charged with a variety of serious offenses, including:
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Murder (in connection with the death of Raniek Mendez)
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Attempted Murder (for the stabbing of Roderick Seward)
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Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose
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Unlawful Possession of a Weapon
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Being a Certain Person Not to Possess a Weapon (as McNeill has a criminal history preventing him from possessing a firearm)
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Eluding (after fleeing from law enforcement during the pursuit)
McNeill is currently being held at the Ocean County Jail, pending a detention hearing. His arrest came after a swift response by law enforcement, who worked together to locate the suspect and prevent further harm. Prosecutor Billhimer commended the efforts of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Toms River Township Police, and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office for their quick and coordinated actions in securing McNeill’s arrest.
Additional Findings and Charges
While executing a court-authorized search warrant at the Adams Avenue residence, detectives discovered a backpack belonging to Roderick Seward. Upon further investigation, detectives seized a quantity of cocaine from the bag. As a result, Seward was charged with Possession of Less than One Half Ounce of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute and Possession of Cocaine. Seward was served with the charges via summons, pending his future appearance in Ocean County Superior Court.
Though the drug discovery adds a layer of complexity to the investigation, it has not deterred authorities from their primary focus: holding McNeill accountable for the violent acts that led to the death of Raniek Mendez and the injuries to Roderick Seward.
Unresolved Questions and Ongoing Investigation
While the immediate investigation has led to the identification and arrest of Steven McNeill, the case remains active. Prosecutor Billhimer noted that a shell casing was recovered from the scene, and a witness reported hearing a single gunshot, though authorities have not yet recovered any weapons. This element of the investigation remains open as detectives continue to explore the possibility that a firearm may have been involved in the altercations that led to the stabbings.
“We are continuing to gather evidence and witness testimony as we work to fully understand the sequence of events leading to this tragedy,” Prosecutor Billhimer stated. “The investigation is ongoing, and we are committed to bringing the facts to light.”
The Community Reacts to the Violence
The community of Toms River, where the incidents occurred, is still reeling from the violence that unfolded early on May 9. Local residents have expressed shock over the brutality of the attack, particularly the loss of life and the violent nature of the altercations. Many are left grappling with the fact that a series of events escalated so quickly and tragically.
“It’s hard to believe something like this could happen here,” said Sarah Dawson, a local resident who lives near Adams Avenue. “You never expect this kind of violence to hit so close to home. Our hearts go out to the families affected by this tragedy.”
The Legal Process and Presumption of Innocence
As the legal process unfolds, it is important to note that the charges against Steven McNeill are merely accusations at this stage. In accordance with the U.S. legal system, McNeill is entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Prosecutor Billhimer emphasized this point in his statement, urging the public to remember that the legal process is still in its early stages and that McNeill will have the opportunity to present a defense in court. “We are confident in the evidence we have gathered so far, but we must allow the judicial process to proceed,” Billhimer said.
Looking Ahead
As the investigation continues and the legal proceedings unfold, the families of both victims — Raniek Mendez and Roderick Seward — are left to navigate the emotional aftermath of the violence that shook their lives. Mendez’s death is a heartbreaking loss for his family and community, and Seward’s injuries, while not life-threatening, have undoubtedly left a lasting impact.
In the coming days, McNeill will appear in court for a detention hearing, where the judge will decide whether he will remain in custody pending trial. The public and law enforcement remain focused on bringing justice to the victims and their families, and ensuring that those responsible for these senseless acts are held accountable.
Anyone with further information regarding this case is encouraged to contact the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit at 732-929-2027, or the Toms River Township Police Department at 732-349-0150.
Conclusion
The charges against Steven McNeill in connection with the murder of Raniek Mendez and the attempted murder of Roderick Seward mark the culmination of a swift and thorough investigation by multiple law enforcement agencies. While the investigation continues to evolve, the authorities remain committed to seeking justice for the victims and ensuring that the facts surrounding this violent series of incidents are fully uncovered.