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HAMILTON: Police seek public’s help to identify shooter

Investigators frustrated by lack of cooperation from partygoers

by James McEvoy, Managing Editor
HAMILTON — Township police and the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office are reaching out to the public to help identify the gunman responsible for last week’s shooting at a party on Deutz Avenue that left one teen dead and four others injured.
   Shakir Williams, 17, of Trenton, was fatally shot Friday, July 12, and four other youths sustained gunshot wounds at the party that was attended by as many as 100 guests, many of the under the age of 18, according to authorities.
   In a press release from the prosecutor’s office, police have been “frustrated” with a lack of cooperation after a week of interviewing victims and witnesses.
   ”It is impossible to believe that no one knows anything,” Hamilton Police Capt. Remo DiPaolo said in the release, referring to the number of partygoers.
   In addition, Hamilton Police Detective William Berish and Mercer County Prosecutor’s Detective Bryan Cottrell, who are leading the investigation, are requesting personal photos or videos that may have been taken by partygoers in hope of identifying the shooter.
   ”It’s the age of technology and social media. Cell phones and smart phones are in constant reach,” Mercer County Prosecutor Joseph L. Bocchini Jr. said. “Communication is instant, yet no one is willing to communicate with the people trying to find the person responsible.”
   Earlier this week, a medical examiner ruled the cause of death as extensive blood loss resulting from a gunshot wound to the abdomen. Mr. Williams was pronounced dead at the scene.
   While authorities are focusing their efforts on identifying and apprehending the shooter, charges may be levied against the mother, stepfather and brother of the 15-year-old girl whose birthday was being celebrated at the home.
   According to Mercer County First Assistant Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri, the mother and stepfather were upstairs while the 23-year-old brother collected entry fees of $2 for girls and $3 for boys at the door.
   Investigators are looking into whether alcohol was being served at the party, Mr. Onofri said.
   Anyone with information on the shooting or Mr. Williams’ death is urged to contact Detective Berish at (609) 581-4089; Detective Cottrell at (609) 278-2792; or the Hamilton Police anonymous tip line at (609) 581-4008.
   In addition, Trenton Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $1,000 for tips that lead to an arrest. Call them at (609) 278-TIPS (8477), or text information and keyword TCSTIPS to 274637. Text STOP to 274637 to cancel. Text HELP to 274637 for help. All tipsters are treated as anonymous.