Atlantic City, New Jersey — A verbal dispute at the Jersey Shore escalated into gunfire Monday evening, leaving one man injured and another facing attempted murder charges, according to police in Atlantic City.
Authorities say the confrontation unfolded in a busy section of the city, prompting a swift response from officers after a gunshot-detection system alerted them to the violence.
Verbal dispute escalates into gunfire
According to the Atlantic City Police Department, the incident occurred around 5:30 p.m. on January 5 near the 2400 block of Pacific Avenue.
Investigators said two men became involved in a heated verbal argument that quickly turned physical. During the dispute, 43-year-old Collin Forrestel was allegedly punched in the face by the other man.
“The verbal altercation escalated into a physical confrontation,” police said.
Police say suspect fired gun after being punched
Following the punch, Forrestel allegedly pulled out a firearm and fired at the other man, authorities reported.
Both men then fled the scene in opposite directions. Police said Forrestel discarded the firearm by throwing it into a dumpster at a nearby construction site while running away.
Officers were dispatched after the city’s ShotSpotter system detected gunfire in the area, triggering an immediate police response.
One victim hospitalized with gunshot wound
As officers arrived, one officer was approached by Forrestel, who claimed he had been shot in the face. The officer transported him to a nearby hospital as a precaution.
Police later confirmed that Forrestel was not struck by gunfire.
Shortly afterward, officers were notified of a second man suffering from a gunshot wound to the leg. He was located in the unit south block of Georgia Avenue and taken to a hospital for treatment.
The victim’s condition has not been described as life-threatening.
Surveillance footage helps investigators
Detectives launched an investigation into the shooting and reviewed nearby surveillance and security camera footage to reconstruct the sequence of events.
Based on evidence gathered, police identified Forrestel as the suspect responsible for firing the weapon.
He was taken into custody and charged with attempted murder, aggravated assault, and additional related offenses.
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Suspect held without release
Authorities confirmed that Forrestel is currently being held at the Atlantic County Justice Facility as the case moves forward through the court system.
Police have not released details about whether the two men knew each other prior to the incident or what sparked the initial argument.
Police seek additional information
The Atlantic City Police Department is continuing its investigation and is asking anyone with information to come forward.
Anyone with tips is urged to contact the Violent Crimes Unit at 609-347-5858. Anonymous tips can also be submitted by texting tip411 (847411) with the phrase “ACPD” followed by the message.
Officials emphasized that even small details could assist investigators as they work to fully understand what led to the shooting.
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