PERTH AMBOY – May 22, 2026 – City police are announcing the filing of the initial charges connected to a May 14 shooting on Water Street, during which a 17-year-old male from Elizabeth was shot in the arm.

A 17-year-old Perth Amboy resident has been arrested and charged with juvenile delinquency offenses, which, if committed by an adult, would include Unlawful Possession of a Firearm and Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose.

Because the suspect is a juvenile, no identifying information will be released.

The investigation remains active. Additional charges are anticipated as detectives continue to review evidence, follow up on investigative leads, and further develop the case, said Police Chief Lawrence Cattano.

“This case moved forward because of the hard work, persistence, and professionalism of our detectives and police officers,” Chief Cattano said.

“From the outset, investigators worked tirelessly gathering evidence, reviewing security footage, analyzing available technology, and following up on leads to fully develop this investigation.”

“While the Department advised early on that there was no ongoing threat to the public, our priority remained ensuring investigators had the time and ability to thoroughly develop the facts and evidence connected to this case before releasing additional details publicly,” he added.

Chief Cattano also thanked residents for their patience and cooperation throughout the investigation.

“We recognize incidents involving gun violence raise serious concerns within the community,” Chief Cattano added.

“We appreciate the patience shown by our residents as detectives continued their work, and we remain committed to pursuing this investigation thoroughly and responsibly.”

Police note the shooting did not occur inside a city park or at the marina, contrary to inaccurate information that circulated following the incident.

Mayor Helmin J. Caba praised the work of the Perth Amboy Police Department and the community's continued cooperation.

“I want to thank the men and women of the Perth Amboy Police Department for their dedication and professionalism throughout this investigation,” Mayor Caba said.

“I also appreciate the cooperation and understanding shown by our residents as detectives worked diligently to move this case forward.”

Additional information will be released as it can be responsibly confirmed and disclosed without compromising the ongoing investigation.