A 46-year-old man from Edison has been arrested in connection with a fatal double stabbing that rocked the quiet South Plainfield community in the early hours of May 19, 2025. The brutal attack left one man dead and another woman wounded in a violent incident that unfolded at a local residence on Tooz Place.
Fatal Double Stabbing Reported Early Morning
According to Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, the stabbing occurred around 1:57 a.m. when officers responded to reports of a violent disturbance at the home. Upon arrival, authorities found 38-year-old Brandon Andrews-Cruz of Raritan suffering from fatal stab wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
In addition to Andrews-Cruz, a 32-year-old woman from South Plainfield was also found wounded with stab injuries. Emergency responders transported her to a nearby hospital, where she received treatment. Thankfully, she has since been released.
Investigation Leads to Arrest of Edison Man
Following a thorough investigation led by detectives from the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, Pablo Cicero was identified as the suspect responsible for the attack. Cicero was arrested on May 29 and faces multiple serious charges related to the incident.
The charges filed against Cicero include first-degree murder, first-degree attempted murder, first-degree home invasion burglary, and multiple weapons offenses. He is currently held at the Middlesex County Adult Correctional Center awaiting a pretrial detention hearing.
Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone stated, “This is a tragic event that has deeply affected the families and communities involved. We are committed to pursuing justice to the fullest extent of the law.
Authorities Continue to Seek Information
The investigation into the double stabbing remains ongoing, with prosecutors urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant information to come forward. Detectives Javier Morillo and Ryan Kirsh from the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office can be contacted at (732) 745-8843 and (732) 745-3711, respectively.
Law enforcement officials stress the importance of community cooperation in helping to bring closure to this case and to prevent future violent crimes.
Background on South Plainfield Crime and Safety Efforts
South Plainfield is a borough located in Middlesex County, New Jersey, known for its suburban atmosphere and close-knit community. While the town is generally considered safe, this recent violent crime has raised concerns among residents and local officials.
The Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office and South Plainfield Police Department have been proactive in addressing crime through community policing efforts and cooperation with residents to enhance safety measures.
Residents are also encouraged to use the New Jersey State Police’s online crime tip reporting system to anonymously submit information: www.njsp.org/crime-tip/.
Legal Process and Next Steps
With Cicero’s arrest, the case will now proceed through the legal system, where prosecutors will present the evidence supporting the serious charges against him. Given the nature of the allegations, the case will likely draw significant attention from the public and media.
First-degree murder charges carry severe penalties, including the possibility of life imprisonment if convicted. The addition of attempted murder and home invasion burglary charges further compounds the seriousness of the legal proceedings.
Authorities and legal experts remind the public that suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
