Toms River Man Held On Attempted Murder Charge In Stabbing Attack

TOMS RIVER, NJ — A Toms River man has been ordered held until trial on a charge of attempted murder in the stabbing of a woman on March 23 in Toms River, the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office announced Tuesday.

Jesse Rucci, 39, was ordered held on charges of attempted murder, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose and unlawful possession of a weapon by Superior Court Judge Michael T. Collins, Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer said.

Rucci is accused of stabbing the woman as she drove along North Bay Avenue about 4:45 p.m. March 23, Billhimer said.

The woman pulled over near Whitty Road and got out, Rucci followed her and continued stabbing her, until good samaritans stepped in and stopped the attack then held Rucci until police arrived and arrested him, authorities said. Read more: Good Samaritans Stop Toms River Stabbing, Hold Man For Police

The woman was taken to a hospital for treatment; authorities have not said how seriously she was injured except that she required surgery.

Rucci has been held at the Ocean County Jail since his arrest. The detention hearing was handled by Assistant Prosecutor Victoria Esler, the prosecutor's office said.

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