Arrest made in Lakewood Murder

A Lakewood man is charged with murder in the death of a Township resident last week, according to authorities.

Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato and Lakewood Police Chief Robert Lawson today announced the arrest of Filiberto Jimenez-Villanueva, 29, in the death of  Adan Anaya Morales, 56.

Jimenez-Villanueva was taken into custody by members of the Lakewood Police Department and the Ocean County Prosecutor's Major Crimes Unit on Thursday, around 8 a.m., at the corner of Monmouth Avenue and 2nd Street in Lakewood while awaiting a ride to work.

The charges stem from a verbal altercation authorities said the two had on Sunday, July 12, around 6 p.m., near 118 Monmouth Avenue in Lakewood.

Jimenez-Villanueva is accused of delivering a blow that knocked the victim to the ground and then fleeing. Authorities said a concerned citizen found Morales unconscious in a parking lot. The victim was transported to Jersey Shore Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead the following morning.

An autopsy determined the victim died as a result of massive head injuries.  The manner of death was ruled a homicide.

The Honorable James M. Blaney, J.S.C., set bail in the amount of $750,000.00 with a no 10% option. The case is being prosecuted by Senior Assistant Prosecutor Joseph F. Mackolin and Assistant Prosecutor Ashley Tito.

Murder carries a penalty of imprisonment for a minimum of 30 years and a maximum term of life.

Anyone with information concerning the case may contact Detective Chase Messer of the Lakewood Police Department at (732) 363-0200 or Detective Raymond Gardner of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit at (732) 929-2027.