NEW YORK — In a shocking and tragic event that has rattled the Salem County community, former New York Governor David Paterson and his stepson, Anthony Sliwa, were attacked in a gang assault on Manhattan’s Upper East Side last Friday night. The New York City Police Department (NYPD) confirmed that two teenagers, a 12-year-old boy and a 13-year-old boy from Bridgeton, have been arrested and charged with gang assault in connection with the incident.
Incident Details
The assault occurred at approximately 3 a.m. on Saturday, September 18, near milepost 20.5 on Route 40 in Pittsgrove. According to police reports, Paterson, 70, and his stepson were walking their dog when they noticed three individuals climbing a fire escape. An initial confrontation ensued when Anthony threatened to call the police, leading to a brief argument. The suspects initially retreated, but about 45 minutes later, Paterson and Sliwa returned to the area.
This time, the situation escalated as the crowd had grown, potentially recognizing Sliwa from the earlier encounter. The confrontation turned violent, resulting in Paterson being punched in the face and shoulder, while Sliwa was knocked to the ground. Both victims were swiftly transported to a local hospital for treatment but have since been released as they continue to recover. Anthony Sliwa sustained five stitches on his lower lip and multiple bruises.
Arrest and Charges
After a thorough investigation, New Jersey State Police identified Christopher Poore, the 23-year-old driver, as the individual responsible for the fatal crash that claimed the life of U.S. Navy veteran Allen Miller Jr. on March 30. Poore was arrested at his residence on October 2 and faces charges of Leaving the Scene of an Accident Resulting in Death and Tampering with Evidence. He has been released pending his upcoming court date.
Community and Family Reactions
Curtis Sliwa, founder of the Guardian Angels and former mayoral candidate, attended the rally alongside his family to support Paterson and Anthony. Reflecting on the incident, Paterson expressed gratitude towards his son and the courage he displayed during the attack. “When they were insulting him and starting to fight him, he didn’t back down. And I think that took a lot of courage, a lot of bravery,” Paterson said.
Curtis Sliwa echoed these sentiments, praising Anthony’s actions. “He did the right thing. And then when they attacked him, he did the right thing to protect David Paterson,” he stated, highlighting the bravery and resilience demonstrated by his stepson.
Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Investigation
The NYPD initially reported a search for five individuals in connection with the attack, indicating that the arrests of the two youths may not mark the end of the investigation. Authorities continue to seek additional suspects, emphasizing the seriousness with which they are approaching the case.
About the Victims
Allen Miller Jr., aged 45, was a proud 1998 graduate of Schalick High School and served honorably in the U.S. Navy during the War in Afghanistan from 2001 to 2005. At the time of his death, Miller was employed as a delivery driver for Carl Harz Furniture in Elmer. His loss has left a profound impact on the Salem County community, where he was remembered as a dedicated veteran, loving father, and cherished friend.
