Actor Ernest Heinz Arrested After Road Rage Shooting

Lead: Ernest Wesley Heinz, known for his role in The Sopranos, was detained in Galloway Township, New Jersey, today after allegedly shooting a woman during a road rage incident near Stockton University at 12:52 p.m., prompting a campus lockdown.

Nut Graf: Heinz faces multiple felony counts-including attempted homicide-highlighting concerns about celebrity involvement in violent confrontations and campus safety protocols during emergent threats.

Arrest & Charges

Incident: Heinz reportedly fired a single shot at Maritza Arias-Galva’s car after cutting her off at a red light on W. Jimmie Leeds Road near Redwood Avenue.
Charges: Attempted homicide, aggravated assault with a firearm, possession of a weapon for an illegal purpose, and related offenses.
Apprehension: After the shooting, Heinz fled north onto Stockton University’s campus, leading officers on a search before arresting him at a nearby residence in the Blue Herron Pines Development.

Campus Lockdown

Shelter-in-Place: Stockton University issued a shelter-in-place order for approximately three hours as police secured the campus and searched for the suspect.
University Response: President Joe Bertolino commended students and staff for following emergency protocols and remaining calm during the lockdown.

Victim Condition

Injury: Arias-Galva sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to the upper nose. She remained conscious and was able to communicate with responding officers at the scene.
Recovery: Medical officials report she is currently recovering and expected to survive.

Background & Relevance

Heinz’s Career: At 46, Heinz’s credits include Ricky (2013), Christopher Nolan’s The Prestige (2006), and J. Edgar (2011).
Public Safety Implications: The arrest underscores the importance of broader discussions on road rage prevention and firearm regulations in New Jersey.