Pleasantville Man Charged After Shooting Into Car, Driver Struck in Head

HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, N.J. — An 18-year-old Pleasantville man was arrested after allegedly shooting into a car carrying six people, hitting the driver in the head, authorities said. Hamilton Township police responded to AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center’s Mainland Campus around 11:47 p.m. Friday after receiving reports of a gunshot wound. Detectives found a crime scene at the Popeye’s parking lot located at 4616 Black Horse Pike. Police discovered bags, food, and paintball scattered throughout the area. A spent 9mm shell casing was also recovered, according to an affidavit of probable cause.
The victim told police there had been a fight in the parking lot before the suspect fired into the vehicle, striking the driver, identified only by the initials ISV, in the head. The victim was transported to the hospital for treatment.
Christian Ruiz was identified as the shooter through photo identification and witness confirmation. He faces 23 charges, including six counts each of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, aggravated assault by pointing a firearm, and aggravated assault by discharging a firearm into a vehicle. Ruiz was arrested Tuesday and remains held at the Atlantic County Justice Facility pending a detention hearing. Hamilton Township police expressed gratitude to Galloway Township police for their assistance during the investigation. Anyone with information is encouraged to call Hamilton Township police at 609-625-2700, extension 578.