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Ex-Firefighter's Deadly NJ Road Trip Ends in Gunfire
10 May
Summary
- Man drove from Maine to NJ allegedly to kill ex-girlfriend's family.
- Police shot the armed man who drove onto the family's lawn.
- He faces attempted murder and weapons charges; held without bail.
A former firefighter, Brian Lanzim, was shot by police in South Toms River, New Jersey, on April 29, after allegedly driving from Maine with the intent to harm his ex-girlfriend's family. Lanzim, 37, was reportedly upset after his ex-girlfriend ended their relationship via FaceTime, during which she heard a gun click. He allegedly made escalating threats via text, including intentions to harm her father and prevent her from seeing their children.
Authorities learned of Lanzim's movements after his ex-girlfriend alerted them. He was found to be armed with two firearms, a bulletproof vest, and multiple large-capacity magazines. Police were waiting at the residence, and Lanzim drove onto the front lawn before attempting to enter the home. An officer shot Lanzim, who was then disarmed and hospitalized.
Lanzim now faces multiple serious charges, including three counts of attempted murder, weapon possession, unlawful use of body armor, burglary, and terroristic threats. His defense attorney stated he has bipolar disorder and was experiencing a mental health crisis. Lanzim was booked into Ocean County Jail on May 4 and is being held without bail.
