Foot Pursuit Ends in Arrest of a Linden Resident with a "Ghost Gun"

Roselle, NJ (February 24, 2023) – At approximately 01:41 p.m. on Friday, February 24, 2023, Police Units responded to East 9th Avenue near the intersection of Chestnut Street on reports of a male with a gun.

Roselle Police Units responded to the area of Arminio Field on a report of a male with a gun. Upon arrival, Officers located the male matching the description provided by an anonymous caller, on the East 8th Avenue side of Arminio Field. The male was later identified as Marveen M. Mathurin, 18, of Linden NJ. Officers attempted to stop Mr. Mathurin but he fled on foot. The foot pursuit ended on the 100 block of East 9th Avenue with Mr. Mathurin being arrested. After apprehension, officers discovered a handgun with a thirty (30) round magazine. A closer inspection of the weapon determined it to be a greenish polymer 80 handgun with a light and laser attached. A polymer 80 gun is often referred to by many as a “Ghost Gun”. The large capacity magazine was loaded with over a dozen hollow point bullets.

Marveen M. Mathurin was charged with 2nd degree unlawful possession of a weapon, 3rd degree “ghost gun”, 4th degree possession on school grounds, 4th degree possession of hollow points, 4th degree possession of a large capacity magazine, and 4th degree resisting.

"I applaud the responding officers for their quick response to this potential threat," said Mayor Donald Shaw. "Roselle has a well-established zero-tolerance policy in regards to individuals who illegally carry firearms. Because of the swift action of our officers, the threat to the public was eliminated. We continue to aggressively respond to any and all cases of armed individuals, thus ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents."

These criminal charges are mere accusation. Every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Roselle Police Department Detective Bureau are the lead investigators, and the case is still under investigation. Anyone with information about this incident or suspect is urged to contact the Roselle Police Department at (908) 245-2000.