Home / Crime and Justice / NJ Man Gets 12 Years for 2016 Murder
NJ Man Gets 12 Years for 2016 Murder
21 Sep
Summary
- Man sentenced to 12 years for 2016 aggravated manslaughter.
- Over 100 human bones discovered on multiple properties in 2020.
- Killer admitted to fight, strangulation, and burning the body.
Michael A. Zappley of Westville, New Jersey, received a 12-year prison sentence on September 18, 2026, for the 2016 killing of Miguel Martinez III. Zappley had previously pleaded guilty to aggravated manslaughter in connection with Martinez's death.
Martinez was reported missing by his family on June 15, 2016. Extensive investigations over several months yielded no leads until 2020, when a witness provided crucial information about Martinez's demise and the subsequent disposal of his remains. This tip led authorities to search properties on Fox Run Road in Deptford.
During the searches in 2020, investigators recovered 106 human bones, later confirmed by DNA testing to belong to Martinez. Zappley, who managed A&J Auto Body in Deptford where he worked, confessed to a physical altercation with Martinez. He admitted to grabbing Martinez from behind, restricting his airway, and striking him, leading to the death.
Following the fatal confrontation, Zappley admitted to leaving Martinez's body outdoors overnight. He then transported the remains to a wooded area near Fox Run Road, where he reportedly attempted to burn the body. Zappley was indicted in 2020 on charges including murder and tampering with evidence. He must serve 85% of his sentence before being considered for parole.
