Officials identify Rahway man after NJ officer shot

RAHWAY, N.J. (PIX11) – Officials on Thursday identified a 20-year-old Rahway resident in connection with the shooting of a Perth Amboy detective.

The shooting happened just before 9 p.m. Wednesday as Perth Amboy detectives were executing an arrest warrant for 20-year-old Angel Santiago, a suspect in an aggravated assault from the day before, officials said.

There was an “exchange of gunfire” between Santiago and the officers, leaving one detective shot, officials said.

Santiago was also shot in the lower leg, although it was not immediately clear who shot him, according to the Union County Prosecutor and Rahway police.

The police officer was shot three times and taken to an area hospital in stable condition, according to the New Jersey State Policemen’s Benevolent Association. The injuries were not life-threatening.

“All of New Jersey is praying for his recovery as he undergoes treatment at an area hospital, and we are grateful to the many law enforcement officers who responded and rendered aid immediately after the shooting,” said New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin.

Initial reports from Rahway Mayor Raymond Giacobbe indicated that there may have been more than one suspect involved in the incident. However, police have only identified Santiago as being involved.

“My thoughts and prayers are with the injured officer. I extend my heartfelt wishes for a swift recovery and offer support to his family during this challenging time,” Giacobbe said.

Anyone with further information is urged to contact Union County Prosecutor’s Office Sergeant Dennis Donovan at 732-232-2049 or Detective Christine Spady at 908-403-1623.

Emily Rahhal is a digital reporter from Los Angeles who has covered New York City since 2023. She joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of her work here and follow her on Twitter here .

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