BERNARDS TOWNSHIP, NJ — A 31-year-old man was shot by police after allegedly advancing toward an officer with a knife Monday afternoon.
Jake Smolinsky, of Asbury, was charged with second-degree aggravated assault and third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose.
Bernards Township police received a 911 text at 3:30 p.m. Monday requesting a welfare check on a male who was bleeding and possibly intoxicated in the area of Mountainview Boulevard.
Officers found Smolinsky seated in the driver’s seat of a Subaru sedan in possession of a knife.
For more than 30 minutes, officers attempted to persuade Smolinsky to exit the vehicle and drop the knife while also trying to render aid for visible injuries on his body.
Smolinsky refused to comply with commands.
At one point, Smolinsky stated to officers “put one right here” while pointing to his head.
Smolinsky then exited the vehicle and began walking toward a Bernards Township police officer with his knife pointed at the officer.
As Smolinsky continued advancing, the officer discharged their duty weapon once, striking Smolinsky in the abdomen.
Officers immediately began life-saving measures.
Smolinsky was transported to an area hospital for medical treatment and is listed in stable condition.
He was served with his complaint at the hospital.
Upon discharge, Smolinsky will be lodged in the Somerset County Jail pending a court hearing.
The Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit and Crime Scene Investigation Unit are investigating.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit at (908) 231-7100 or the Bernards Township Police Department at (908) 766-1122.
