Mercer Times

The New Jersey Attorney General's Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA) has made public video footage relating to the investigation of a police encounter resulting in a fatality. On February 12, 2024, Armond Anthony Avitable IV, 38, of East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, died after an interaction with New Jersey State Troopers in Knowlton, Warren County.

The released materials include body-worn camera footage, radio communications, and a 911 call, in accordance with guidelines established by the Attorney General’s Office in 2019. These guidelines seek to ensure transparency in investigating fatal police confrontations. Prior to the release, investigators met with Mr. Avitable’s family representatives to review the footage.

Initial investigations indicate that the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) responded to a report of an active shooter at a Columbia Street residence in Knowlton around 7:51 p.m. The officers discovered a female victim with gunshot wounds, who was later declared deceased. They then encountered Mr. Avitable, matching the suspect's description, near Route 46 and Interstate 80.

At approximately 8:10 p.m., NJSP troopers, including Sgt. Kyle Bruno, and State Troopers Sarah Heitzenroeder, Justin Watts, Conner McNemar, and Connor Krueger, apprehended Mr. Avitable following a struggle. While in custody, he suffered a medical episode and lost consciousness. Troopers administered life-saving efforts and used a defibrillator until emergency services arrived. Mr. Avitable was transported to Lehigh Valley Hospital — Pocono, where he was pronounced dead at 8:57 p.m.

The investigation continues, guided by a 2019 law requiring the Attorney General’s Office to investigate deaths occurring during law enforcement encounters. These investigations must be presented to a grand jury to decide on possible indictments against officers involved.

No further details are available at this time. Additional information about the procedures for investigating fatal police incidents in New Jersey can be found on the Attorney General's website.