Fugitive Wanted For 2021 South Jersey Killing Found At U.S. Border: Prosecutor

SAN DIEGO, CA — A fugitive wanted for a 2021 homicide in Cumberland County was arrested last week at the United States border, officials said.

David Morales-Olmedo had an active warrant for his arrest, stemming from a fatal shooting in Bridgeton, according to the Cumberland County Prosecutor's Office (CCPO). Officers from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection apprehended him Thursday, when he applied to enter the United States from Mexico.

CBP officers flagged Morales-Olmedo as a wanted person at the San Ysidro Port of Entry in Southern California. Once they confirmed his identity, Morales-Olmedo was arrested and placed in San Diego Central Jail.

His extradition to New Jersey is pending.

The investigation began after officers responded to shots fired from a Bridgeton backyard on the night of June 3, 2021, authorities said. Police reached the scene at the 100 block of N Pearl Street. But the victim — Mario Soriano — was brought to the hospital before they arrived, the CCPO said.

Soriano died from his injuries shortly after reaching Inspira Health Center Bridgeton, according to law enforcement.

One day later, authorities announced that Morales-Olmedo was charged with homicide/related weapons offenses. The CCPO alerted the public that he had an active warrant out and "should be considered armed and dangerous."

Anyone who saw him was advised to call 911 or contact Bridgeton police.