EHT vehicle stop leads to Salem fugitive with loaded gun, police say

A man and teen were arrested after Egg Harbor Township police found a defaced firearm during a motor vehicle stop, charges claim.

Russell Daniel, 27, was pulled over just after 10 p.m. last Tuesday on a motor vehicle violation in the area of 6661 Black Horse Pike, police said.

That is when Officer Gavin Pullan learned the driver was wanted out of Salem County Sheriff’s Office for a previous handgun offense.

A resulting search of the vehicle led to a 9mm handgun with a defaced serial number, loaded with a 12 round high-capacity magazine, and 10 hollow point bullets, according to the charges.

Daniel and his 15-year-old passenger were arrested and charged with several gun-related offenses.

The juvenile was released on a summons.

Daniel remains in the Atlantic County Justice Facility.

"We understand that a traffic stop may be perceived as an inconvenience to many, but it is an officer’s responsibility to stop, educate the public and enforce the laws of the state," police wrote in a news release. "(State) traffic laws enhance the safety for the motoring public on our roadways. On occasion, a stop such as this one, will also allow an officer to apprehend a more serious criminal offender as well.

"Thank you for supporting our officers’ efforts in keeping our community a safe place to live, work and pass through," the release continued.