A Peaceful Neighborhood Turned Upside Down
Tucked away off Cranbury Road in East Brunswick, New Jersey, the Cranbury Circle area is known as a tranquil enclave where trouble seldom visits. The centerpiece of this neighborhood – Cranbury Crossing Apartment Homes – prides itself on a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere. Residents enjoy beautifully landscaped, tree-lined grounds and modern, updated apartment homes set in a desirable East Brunswick location. It’s a place where quiet isn’t just an aspiration but a daily reality.
But in April 2025, that sense of security was suddenly and brutally disrupted. Late one night, the residents’ serenity was pierced by an unmistakable sound — gunshots cracking through the spring air. In an instant, the calm was replaced with fear and confusion. Lights flicked on in windows along Cranbury Circle as people peered out into the darkness, hearts pounding, trying to understand what was happening.
It wasn’t just one incident. It happened three times.
Unsettling Incidents in the Night
Throughout April, the East Brunswick Police Department responded to three separate reports of shots fired at Cranbury Circle.
Miraculously, no injuries were reported in any of the incidents.
An immediate and thorough investigation began. Detectives worked tirelessly to identify the person responsible and determine the motive. Initial findings confirmed that these were not random acts — the victims were known to the suspect. This discovery provided critical insight, narrowing the search and allowing authorities to piece together the case.
The Suspect Returns
On Friday, April 18, the breakthrough came. Officers monitoring the area saw the suspect return to Cranbury Circle — and swiftly took him into custody without incident.
The man arrested was identified as Sameh F. Kaldes, a 43-year-old resident of Matawan.
Kaldes was charged with:
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Two counts of Attempted Murder
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Stalking
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Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance
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Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
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Receiving Stolen Property
He is currently being held at the Middlesex County Adult Correctional Center in North Brunswick.
A Community Restores Its Peace
East Brunswick Police Chief Frank LoSacco praised the officers involved for their dedication, noting how the department’s commitment to community safety led to a swift and safe arrest.
“Their efforts not only brought resolution to a very serious matter but also helped restore a sense of safety and trust in our community,” Chief LoSacco said.
Residents of Cranbury Crossing, a community known for its peaceful grounds, beautiful amenities, and welcoming atmosphere, can finally begin to breathe easier.
Thanks to quick action and relentless work, peace has returned to Cranbury Circle — a community determined to remain one of East Brunswick’s most peaceful and desirable neighborhoods.
Disclaimer: All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Information is based on official reports available at the time of publication.