CHERRY HILL, NJ — A quiet Wednesday afternoon at a popular local shopping destination turned into a scene of chaos and concern after a man was found shot inside his vehicle. The incident, which occurred at the Liberty Bell Plaza on Route 70 East, has left the community on edge as authorities search for answers.
Cherry Hill Police and investigators from the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office swarmed the shopping center shortly after reports came in of a person suffering from a gunshot wound in the parking lot.
Eyewitnesses Describe a Harrowing Scene
The gravity of the situation became clear to bystanders when the sound of a blaring car horn echoed through the plaza. Witnesses at the scene reported seeing a 61-year-old man slumped over the steering wheel of his car, which was parked in the middle of the busy retail hub.
Phil Hausler, the owner of the nearby Phil’s Deli & Market, was one of the first people to react. Hausler told local reporters that the commotion drew him outside immediately.
“I go running out. I see the car with a gentleman sitting in the driver’s seat and another gentleman outside of the car, who I actually know — he’s a regular customer of mine — with the doors open, and he’s holding a towel against his upper right chest,” Hausler recounted.
The quick thinking of the “regular customer” and the immediate 911 call from Hausler likely played a crucial role in getting the victim medical attention. The unidentified victim was rushed to Cooper University Hospital, where officials say he is currently in stable condition.
Police Response and Investigation
The Camden County Prosecutor’s Office has taken the lead on the investigation, working alongside Cherry Hill detectives. As of Wednesday evening, no arrests have been made, and the motive behind the shooting remains unclear.
However, authorities have attempted to ease public fears by stating that they believe this is an isolated incident. This suggests that there is no ongoing threat to the general public at the Liberty Bell Plaza, though the presence of a firearm at a busy shopping center remains a major point of concern for residents.
Community Impact and Safety Concerns
Liberty Bell Plaza is a staple for Cherry Hill residents, housing several local businesses and daily-stop shops. An incident of this nature during broad daylight has sparked a conversation among locals about safety in high-traffic commercial areas.
Local shoppers often frequent this stretch of Route 70 for its convenience, and the sight of yellow police tape surrounding a familiar parking lot is a jarring reminder of how quickly a normal day can change. For business owners like Phil Hausler, the priority remains the safety of their “regulars” and the community that supports them.
How You Can Help
Detectives are currently reviewing surveillance footage from the shopping center and surrounding businesses to identify any potential suspects or vehicles involved.
Authorities are urging anyone who was in the area of Route 70 East on Wednesday afternoon or anyone with information regarding the shooting to come forward.
- Det. Timothy Jordan (Camden County Prosecutor’s Office): 856-365-3073
- Det. Bruce Erney (Cherry Hill Police): 856-432-8828
Information can be provided anonymously, and every tip could be vital in bringing a resolution to this case.
Do you shop at Liberty Bell Plaza frequently? Does this incident make you concerned about daytime safety in the area, or do you feel this is a rare occurrence for Cherry Hill? Share your thoughts and support for the victim in the comments below.
