NJ Man Charged with Killing Homeless Person with Hammer

The suspect, also homeless, faces first-degree murder and weapons charges.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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A 32-year-old homeless man named Jamie Lopez has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder, unlawful possession of a weapon, and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose after allegedly beating another homeless person to death with a hammer in Passaic County, New Jersey.

Why it matters

Homelessness and violence against the homeless are ongoing issues in many communities, raising concerns about mental health support, addiction services, and the need for more affordable housing and shelters.

The details

On Friday afternoon, Paterson police found a dead homeless man with blunt force injuries to the back of his head in a makeshift shelter in the area of 140 Marshall Street. Further investigation led authorities to believe that Lopez had beaten the man to death with a hammer. Lopez was arrested the following day without incident.

  • On Friday, around 1:30 p.m., Paterson police found the dead homeless man.
  • Lopez was arrested a day later on Saturday.

The players

Jamie Lopez

A 32-year-old homeless man who has been charged with first-degree murder, unlawful possession of a weapon, and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose.

The Victim

An unidentified homeless man who was found dead with blunt force injuries to the back of his head in a makeshift shelter.

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What’s next

Authorities said the investigation into the slaying is ongoing.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the urgent need for greater resources and support to address homelessness and prevent violence against vulnerable members of the community.