The Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide Unit has charged two individuals in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred in North Bergen on Monday, August 5, 2024.
James Baker, 24, of Secaucus, is charged with Murder in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:11-3a(1); Felony Murder in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:11-3a(3); Robbery in violation of N.J.S.A. 15-1a(1); Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose in violation of N.J.S.A. 39-4a(1); Unlawful Possession of a Weapon in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5b(1); and Conspiracy to Commit a Robbery in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2a(1) and 2C:15-1a(1). Arwa Elmohdli, 21, of North Bergen, is charged with Felony Murder (as an Accomplice) in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:11-3a(3); Robbery in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:15-1a(1); and Conspiracy to Commit a Robbery in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2a(1) and 2C:15-1a(1). Both defendants are being detained at the Hudson County Correctional Facility pending their first court appearances.
Shortly after 9 a.m. on Monday, August 5, 2024, the North Bergen Police Department was notified of an injured male in the area of Meadowview Avenue and 61st Street. Responding officers located a male victim – later identified as Juan Ortiz, 31, of North Bergen – with an apparent gunshot wound(s). He was transported to Palisades Medical Center where he was pronounced dead at approximately 9:40 a.m.
Prosecutor Suarez credited the Homicide Unit and the North Bergen Police Department with the investigation and arrests. The above charges are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. R.P.C.3.6(b)(6)
