At a Glance
- James Zigler III was arrested after firing four shots at police during a traffic stop.
- The incident began when Frances Martin was pulled over at 6:44 p.m. on Tuesday.
- Zigler was later found at a home on Wheaton Avenue; no officers were injured.
- Why it matters: The event prompted a nighttime investigation and highlights the dangers police face during pursuit.
A man and a woman were arrested Tuesday night after one of them fired at officers following a traffic stop in Millville, New Jersey. The incident led to a police investigation at a residence overnight and resulted in the arrest of James Zigler III on multiple charges.
Context
The traffic stop took place at the intersection of 4th and Sassafras streets in Millville at about 6:44 p.m. Frances Martin, a 39-year-old woman, was driving a Hyundai Santa Fe when officers pulled her over. James Zigler III, a 42-year-old passenger, provided false information before fleeing on foot.
Police officials described Zigler’s escape as a sudden turn onto 6th Street. While heading southbound, he produced a firearm and fired four shots at the officers who were in pursuit. Officers took cover behind nearby vehicles, losing sight of Zigler for a brief period.
Timeline
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 6:44 p.m. | Police stop at 4th & Sassafras |
| 6:45 p.m. | Zigler exits vehicle, flees on foot |
| 6:46 p.m. | Zigler turns onto 6th Street, fires shots |
| 6:48 p.m. | Officers lose sight of Zigler |
| 6:50 p.m. | Officers locate Zigler on Wheaton Avenue |
| 6:55 p.m. | Zigler arrested; firearm recovered |
| Overnight | Police investigate residence, cordon off area |
The officers’ pursuit ended when they located Zigler at a residence along Wheaton Avenue. There, he was apprehended and a firearm was recovered.
Charges and Investigation
Zigler faces several charges:
- Attempted murder
- Resisting arrest
- Firearm violations
- Related offenses
Frances Martin was charged with obstruction and has been released while awaiting a court date. Zigler is being held in police custody pending a detention hearing.
During the overnight investigation, officers cordoned off an area about three blocks around the home in every direction. They entered and exited the residence for several hours. An investigator was seen removing a bag from the house, though the contents were not disclosed.
Officials emphasized that no officers were injured during the incident. Police said the investigation is ongoing.
Current Status
- James Zigler III remains in custody.
- Frances Martin has been released.
- The police department continues to investigate the events and the contents of the bag removed from the residence.
The incident was reported by police at about noon on Wednesday, and the details were made public by the department.
Key Takeaways
- A traffic stop escalated into a shooting when a passenger fired at pursuing officers.
- The suspect was located and arrested at a home on Wheaton Avenue; no injuries were reported.
- Multiple charges were filed against the suspect, and the investigation is still underway.
The case underscores the risks law enforcement officers face during vehicle pursuits and the importance of thorough post-incident investigations.
