A 25-year-old man from Long Branch, New Jersey, who had been on the run for over a year, has been arrested in Georgia in connection with a 2024 murder case.
The suspect, Raheem Montes, was captured in Clayton County, Georgia, according to Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond Santiago. Authorities had been searching for him since February 2024 after he was charged in a fatal shooting.
The Incident That Led to the Arrest
On February 11, 2024, at approximately 1:30 a.m., officers responded to reports of gunfire on Brighton Avenue, between Ocean Boulevard and 2nd Avenue in Long Branch. When law enforcement arrived at the scene, they found 31-year-old Elijah Buffaloe, a Long Branch resident, suffering from gunshot wounds.
Buffaloe was rushed to a nearby hospital, but despite efforts to save him, he succumbed to his injuries. Another victim, a 32-year-old man from Brick Township, was also shot during the incident but survived.
How Authorities Tracked Down Montes
After the shooting, Montes was immediately identified as the suspect and charged with first-degree murder. However, by the time charges were filed, he had fled the state, prompting an extensive manhunt across multiple states.
Authorities in Monmouth County, along with federal law enforcement agencies, worked together to locate him. Their efforts finally led them to Clayton County, Georgia, where Montes was taken into custody without incident. Officials have not yet disclosed how they tracked him down or what he was doing while on the run.
Legal Proceedings and Extradition
Montes is currently in custody in Georgia, where he is awaiting extradition back to New Jersey. Once he returns, he will face legal proceedings in Monmouth County Superior Court.
If convicted of first-degree murder, Montes could face a life sentence in prison. In addition to the murder charge, he may also face other charges related to the second shooting of the Brick Township man.
Community Reactions and Police Warnings
The murder of Elijah Buffaloe and the subsequent search for Montes had a profound impact on the Long Branch community. Residents expressed both relief and sadness upon hearing about the arrest. Many had feared for their safety, knowing that a murder suspect had been on the loose for over a year.
Law enforcement officials urged the public to report any suspicious activity and reminded residents about the importance of community cooperation in criminal investigations.
“This arrest is a testament to the dedication of our officers and partner agencies. We will continue to pursue justice for victims and their families,” said Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond Santiago.
What Happens Next?
As Montes awaits extradition, legal experts say his case will move forward in the Monmouth County court system once he arrives back in New Jersey. The court process could take several months or even years, depending on how Montes pleads and whether he seeks a trial.
Authorities have not disclosed whether Montes had any accomplices or if the shooting was part of a larger criminal dispute. However, they assure the public that the case remains a top priority and more details may emerge as the trial progresses.
Stay Updated
For ongoing updates on this case, residents can follow local news reports and updates from the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office. Officials encourage anyone with additional information regarding the shooting to come forward and assist in the investigation.
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