'Armed And Dangerous' Man IDed In Woman's Burning At NJ Hospital

HACKENSACK, NJ — A West Deptford nurse has been identified as the suspect in an attack at Hackensack University Medical Center that left a hospital employee burned and requiring stitches, officials say.

Nicholas Pagano, 31, of West Deptford faces multiple charges in connection with the attack on the woman, according to a news release from Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella. Officials said Monday night they are searching for him and he should be considered armed and dangerous. Members of the public should not approach him.

Pagano may be in a 1998 white Jeep Grand Cherokee with black roof racks and New Jersey license plate number S57 NJH.

Hackensack Police Department said that if anyone knows where Pagano is or sees him, they should call police at (201)646-7777.

Early Monday morning, a hospital employee called Hackensack Police to report an assault on the medical center campus. Police found a 54-year-old woman, who worked at the hospital, with burns and a laceration to her head.

Detectives from Hackensack Police Department and the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office determined the suspect burned the victim and hit her with a wrench. The suspect, identified as Pagano, fled the hospital.

Pagano has been charged with first-degree attempted murder, second-degree aggravated arson against the person, second-degree aggravated arson against the property, second-degree aggravated assault, third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and fourth-degree unlawful possession of a weapon, according to Musella's office.

The victim was eventually taken to another hospital for further care. Officials have not yet shared her condition, identity, or a motive for the attack.