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Flemington Today
By the People, for the People
Hunterdon Man Charged in Violent Post Office Carjacking
Victim injured chasing stolen Jeep, suspect faces multiple charges including carjacking and assault.
Published on Mar. 10, 2026
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A 36-year-old Bethlehem Township man has been charged with carjacking, aggravated assault, and other offenses after allegedly stealing a Jeep Gladiator that was left running outside a Hunterdon County post office and assaulting the owner who tried to stop him.
Why it matters
Carjackings have become an increasing concern in New Jersey, with the state seeing a rise in these violent crimes in recent years. This incident highlights the risks to public safety when vehicles are left unattended, even briefly, and the potential for serious injury when owners attempt to intervene.
The details
Authorities say Zachary Verrastro stole the Jeep on March 9 after the owner went into the post office, leaving the vehicle running with the keys inside. When the victim returned and saw Verrastro driving away, he chased after the Jeep. During a confrontation, the victim was injured when he was dragged by the Jeep and punched by Verrastro as he fled. Verrastro also allegedly damaged two other vehicles as he left the area.
- The incident occurred on March 9, 2026.
- Verrastro was detained by a detective in front of the Hunterdon County Justice Center.
The players
Zachary Verrastro
A 36-year-old Bethlehem Township man charged with carjacking, aggravated assault, and other offenses.
Dean Cerdeira
A detective with the Hunterdon County Prosecutor's Office who intervened and detained Verrastro.
What’s next
Verrastro is being held at the Warren County Jail pending an appearance in Superior Court.
The takeaway
This incident underscores the need for heightened vigilance and security measures to prevent carjackings, which have become an increasingly concerning trend in New Jersey. It also highlights the risks to public safety when owners try to intervene, emphasizing the importance of reporting such crimes to law enforcement immediately.
