Virginia Teen Pleads Guilty to Attempted Murder of New Jersey Police Officer

Prosecutors say the 17-year-old rammed a patrol car and charged officers with a knife, citing extremist influences.

Feb. 2, 2026 at 1:23pm

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A 17-year-old from Virginia pleaded guilty to attempting to murder a New Jersey police officer during a violent confrontation last year. Fasihullah Safar admitted to ramming a patrol car, then charging at officers with a knife while shouting "Allahu akbar". Safar will be sentenced as an adult and faces up to 18 years in prison.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing threat of radicalization and extremism among young people, and the challenges law enforcement face in responding to such incidents. The attempted murder of a police officer also raises concerns about public safety and the need for robust mental health and anti-extremism programs.

The details

On March 21, 2025, police in Florence Township, New Jersey responded to a call about an overturned vehicle. Safar, who was driving a stolen car, rammed a police patrol car repeatedly before the vehicle stopped working. When other officers arrived, Safar charged at them with a knife, stabbing one officer multiple times in the chest. The officer's tactical vest prevented serious injury. During the struggle to subdue Safar, three other officers suffered minor injuries.

  • On March 21, 2025 at 4:30 p.m., the incident occurred in Florence Township, New Jersey.
  • In September 2025, the case was elevated from juvenile court after prosecutors filed a petition to try Safar as an adult.
  • Safar is scheduled to be sentenced on March 26, 2026.

The players

Fasihullah Safar

A 17-year-old from Alexandria, Virginia who pleaded guilty to attempted murder, aggravated assault, and other charges related to the attack on police officers.

LaChia Bradshaw

The Burlington County Prosecutor who is seeking an 18-year prison sentence for Safar.

Florence Township Police

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the initial call and was targeted by Safar.

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What they’re saying

“We stand with the Florence Township police officers who were targeted in this senseless and cowardly act of violence. Violence driven by hatred or intolerance has no place here and will be met with the full force of the law. The Burlington County Prosecutor's Office is committed to protecting every resident from violent and hateful acts.”

— LaChia Bradshaw, Burlington County Prosecutor

What’s next

Safar is scheduled to be sentenced on March 26, 2026 and is expected to receive an 18-year prison term as an adult.

The takeaway

This case underscores the growing threat of youth radicalization and the need for robust mental health and anti-extremism programs to prevent such violent attacks on law enforcement and the community.