According to the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, authorities responded to a residence on Roosevelt Avenue in Carteret just before 10pm on Wednesday evening on the report of a stabbing. Upon arrival, officers located 18-year old Zion Barton, of the Bronx, New York, who had suffered apparent stab wounds. He was taken to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

The investigation apparently led authorities to a 15-year old female acquaintance of the Mr. Barton. She was ultimately arrested and charged with Murder, a crime of the First Degree if committed by an adult, and Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, a crime of the Third Degree if committed by an adult. (The juvenile’s identity will not be released).

Anyone with any information about the incident is being asked to contact Carteret Police Detective Anthony Ramos at 732-541-4181 or Prosecutor’s Office Detective Sean Sullivan at 732-745-4060. For more information, the nj.com article can be found here.

Although she is currently charged as a juvenile, under the circumstances, the State can file a motion to have the 15-year old waived up and stand trial as an adult. At a minimum, a waiver will greatly increase the potential jail sentence.

If you or a loved one has been charged a juvenile and are potentially facing waiver to adult court, it is imperative that you contact an attorney who understands the process and can zealously defend your rights and advocate on your behalf. Alissa D. Hascup, Esq. is available 24/7 for a free initial consultation. Contact her without delay to get the answers you are desperately seeking.