Long Branch, NJ man who murdered four people on New Year’s Eve 2017, found guilty on all charges

It's one of the most heartbreaking tragedies in recent memory in Monmouth County and the Jersey Shore, four people were murdered on New Year's Eve in 2017.

Following an arrest, charges, and court proceedings, the man responsible for this heinous crime on December 31, 2017, in Long Branch has been found guilty on all counts for using a high-powered rifle to shoot his mother, father, sister, and his grandmother's friend.

Acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Lori Linskey announced Thursday that 20-year old Scott Kologi, 20, was convicted on all charges, including four counts of first-degree murder and a second-degree weapons offense, following an approximately two-week trial, and several hours of jury deliberation.

Long Branch Police and the Monmouth County Sheriff's Office responded to the 911 call that night after shots were reported around 11:43 pm at 635 Wall Street, and inside found all four victims in various spots of the home suffering from gunshot wounds.

Scott Kologi was arrested on scene for shooting his sister, 18-year-old Brittany Kologi, his mother, 44-year-old Linda Kologi, his father, 42-year-old Steven Kologi, and his grandfather’s companion, 70-year-old Mary Schultz of Ocean Township inside the home.

The Century Arms C39v2 semi-automatic rifle Scott Kologi used in the shooting was also recovered.

Get our free mobile app

The Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office and Long Branch Police continued the investigation into the quadruple homicide by a then 16-year old Scott Kologi, whose case was waived to Superior Court.

He was later indicted on the current charges.

“The jury’s verdict confirms that Scott Kologi was responsible for his decisions and actions on the night that culminated with him killing four members of his family,” Acting Prosecutor Linskey said in a written statement on Thursday. “This trial hinged on issues of mental health and the responsibility of this defendant. It is clear that the jury considered all of the evidence, including the testimony of expert witnesses, as well as the applicable law, in rendering its verdict. In recognizing the criminality of the defendant’s actions, we also recognize that this is a tragedy for all of the family members who are left to mourn this tremendous loss. This Office will continue to hold the perpetrators of gun violence responsible.”

Kologi is scheduled to be sentenced on Thursday, June 30, where he will face up to four life sentences in state prison.

This case was prosecuted by Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutors Sean Brennan and Caitlin Sidley.

Kologi was represented by Richard Lomurro, Esq. and Emeka Nkwuo, Esq., of Freehold.

Here is further coverage of the Scott Kologi murder case: