Hamilton Twp., NJ PD Seeks Man After 3 Guns Found in Traffic Stop

One suspect arrested, another still wanted after unregistered firearms, including a stolen gun, were discovered in a vehicle.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 7:11pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of the metallic surface and trigger mechanism of an unregistered handgun, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conveying a stark, gritty, and investigative aesthetic.The recovery of illegal firearms during a routine traffic stop underscores the ongoing challenge of gun violence in many communities.Atlantic City Today

Police in Hamilton Township, New Jersey, have arrested one suspect and are searching for another after a traffic stop led to the discovery of three unregistered handguns, including one that was reported stolen. The two suspects, both 20-year-old men from Mays Landing, are facing a range of weapons charges.

Why it matters

Gun violence and illegal firearm possession are ongoing concerns in many communities, and this incident highlights the importance of proactive law enforcement efforts to get unlawful weapons off the streets. The recovery of a stolen gun also raises questions about the broader network of illegal gun trafficking.

The details

According to the Hamilton Township Police Department, officers stopped a Dodge Durango on April 5th for motor vehicle violations. Detectives later searched the vehicle and found three unregistered handguns, one of which had been reported stolen out of Monroe Township. The driver, Romello Gardner, and the passenger, Luis Lopez-Bautista, both 20-year-old men from Mays Landing, were charged with a range of weapons offenses.

  • The traffic stop occurred on the night of April 5th.
  • Last Thursday, Lopez-Bautista was arrested and taken into custody.
  • Gardner has failed to surrender and is still wanted by police.

The players

Romello Gardner

A 20-year-old man from Mays Landing who is wanted by police for his alleged involvement in the incident.

Luis Lopez-Bautista

A 20-year-old man from Mays Landing who was arrested last Thursday in connection with the incident.

Hamilton Township Police Department

The law enforcement agency that conducted the traffic stop and investigation leading to the arrests.

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What they’re saying

“Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Gardner is asked to call (609) 625-2211.”

— Hamilton Township Police Department

What’s next

The judge will decide on Gardner's bail status at a hearing scheduled for next Tuesday.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the ongoing challenge of illegal gun possession and the need for continued vigilance by law enforcement to keep communities safe. The recovery of a stolen firearm also raises concerns about the broader problem of gun trafficking that fuels violence in many neighborhoods.