Summer Night Turns Deadly in Long Branch New Jersey
- Karen Brittingham-Edmond
- Jun 14
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 14
June 14, 2025
Incident
Long Branch -- NJ According to a report by Jim Murdock of Channel 12 News New Jersey, a tragic incident unfolded on the night of June 12, 2025, at the Long Branch boardwalk. What started as a vibrant summer evening turned into chaos as gunfire erupted, sending crowds running for safety. The Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office has confirmed that a homicide investigation is now underway. Social media lit up with posts and videos showing people fleeing the scene, while first responders rushed to aid a victim on the beach. Authorities, including the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Bureau and the Long Branch Police Department, are actively investigating the situation.
Officials reported that just before 9 P.M. on Thursday, a man was fatally shot near the shoreline and boardwalk of Pier Village. The victim’s identity has not yet been released. For Dan McCreesh, the night took a devastating turn. What began as a celebration of his new business opening quickly became a moment of survival. “When we heard the shots fired, it was terrifying for a few minutes,” McCreesh shared. “I saw everything unfold—there were at least 100 officers swarming the beach, all focused on one individual who had been hit.” Witnesses described the scene as a fight on the beach that escalated into a deadly confrontation. The boardwalk, which had been alive with music and summer vibes, was suddenly overshadowed by tragedy.“We were out here having a good time, celebrating life, and then everything shifted,” McCreesh reflected. “It really puts things into perspective. But I have to say, seeing the immediate response from law enforcement made me feel safe in the moment.”
However, the weight of the situation hit hard as McCreesh processed what had happened just feet away.“It was heartbreaking to witness in real time. There’s nothing you can say or do in that moment except feel empathy,” he said. McCreesh also noted that this wasn’t the first time tensions had flared in the area this summer.“This is probably the third major incident I’ve seen—though not shootings—but big fights,” he added. By the next morning, crews were back on the beach, clearing debris and preparing for another busy weekend, even as police tape marked the area.“Something has to change,” McCreesh said. “I don’t know what the solution is, but that’s why we have people in leadership to figure it out.”
Long Branch Mayor John Pallone addressed the community with a statement: “I sincerely regret the loss of life that occurred last night on Chelsea Beach. I want to thank the Long Branch Police Department and the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office for their swift and effective response. I also want to inform the public that the roadway, boardwalk, and beach have been reopened and are fully staffed with our regular team of beach security and lifeguards.”
Officials have assured the public that this appears to be an isolated incident. The Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office is urging anyone with photos or videos from the beach and boardwalk during the time of the incident to come forward and share them.
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