Galloway Township Man Arrested in Stockton University Road-Rage Attack
Galloway Township, N.J. — September 11, 2025 — A Port Republic man has been arrested in connection with the attempted homicide of a Galloway Township woman following a violent road-rage altercation that spilled onto the campus of Stockton University, police said Thursday.
The Galloway Township Police Department identified the suspect as 46-year-old Ernest W. Heinz, who was taken into custody without incident after investigators tied him to the assault of Maritza Arias-Galva, a local resident.
The Incident
Police said the confrontation began as a road-rage dispute before escalating onto Stockton University property Thursday afternoon. Officers responded quickly after receiving reports of an altercation on campus.
When officers arrived, Arias-Galva was found injured and in need of urgent medical attention. She was transported to a nearby hospital, where she is being treated. Authorities confirmed she is expected to survive.
Stockton University temporarily initiated precautionary safety protocols, including alerts to students and staff. The university later clarified that the incident was not connected to campus activity and that there was no ongoing threat.
The Arrest
Detectives rapidly identified Heinz as the primary suspect in the assault. By Thursday evening, Galloway Township Police, with assistance from other agencies, located and arrested him.
Heinz now faces multiple charges, including attempted homicide and aggravated assault. He is being held pending a court appearance.
“This was an isolated road-rage incident that tragically escalated,” a Galloway Township Police spokesperson said. “At no point was there a wider risk to the community or to Stockton University.”
Community Reaction
The attack shook both Galloway Township residents and Stockton University’s student body, many of whom expressed concern about safety on campus.
Local leaders underscored that the situation was contained quickly and urged residents not to let fear overshadow the reality that the event was not a random act of violence. “This is a stark reminder of how dangerous road-rage encounters can become,” one official said. “We are thankful to law enforcement for their swift actions.”
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are continuing to review security footage, interview witnesses, and examine evidence from the vehicles involved.
Police are asking anyone with additional information about the incident to contact the Galloway Township Police Department.
