Murder Charge For Man In Fatal Jersey Shore Shooting: Authorities

WOODBINE, NJ — The person believed to be responsible for the shooting death of a 22-year-old Whitesboro resident has been caught, authorities said.

Hakeem Denby, 34, of Vineland, is charged with murder and other related offenses in connection with the death of Daquann Smith, who was found fatally injured by police on Oct. 25, Prosecutor Jeffrey H. Sutherland and New Jersey State Police said in a joint news release.

Denby was taken into custody Monday following an investigation where police worked together to follow leads after seeking the public's assistance, authorities said. Read more: NJ Man Shot To Death, State Police Seek Help In Investigation

“We remain committed to ensuring justice for Mr. Smith and providing his family and loved ones with some measure of closure,” Sutherland said, thanking the work of the prosecutor's office and state police.

“The arrest of Hakeem Denby is a testament to the relentless pursuit of justice by the detectives of the New Jersey State Police and Cape May County Prosecutor's Office,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of The New Jersey State Police. “Their dedication to removing violent offenders from our streets directly contributes to the safety and well-being of our communities. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to ensure that those who endanger our neighborhoods are held accountable.”

Denby is charged with murder, unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose and certain person not to possess a weapon. He sits in the Cape May County Justice Facility awaiting a court appearance on Nov. 6.

If convicted, Denby faces 30 years to life in prison, with no parole eligibility for 30 years.

The Cape May County Prosecutor's Office continues to encourage anyone with additional information related to this case to contact the Major Crimes Unit at 609-465-1135 or the New Jersey State Police at 609-861-5698 or anonymously on the Cape May County Prosecutor's Office website at cmcpros.net/tips.