According to reports, two officers responded to a situation involving three men attempting to rob three individuals outside Caesars casino, which led to an exchange of gunfire. One of the suspects, 25-year-old Jerome Damon, was fatally shot during the incident. Officer Jostle Vadell, aged 29, was urgently transported to the hospital in critical condition but was later reported to be stable.
“Our hearts are heavy at this moment, yet our determination to apprehend these suspects remains unwavering,” stated Patrick Colligan, president of the New Jersey PBA, in a statement following the event. “We request prayers for the officer, his family, and the Atlantic City Police Department.”
In court, suspects Demitrius Cross and Martel Chisolm entered the courtroom to discover a gathering of police officers who had come to pay tribute to their fellow officer.
Officer Vadell’s wife provided an update on her husband’s condition via Facebook.
“Update on Josh… he is doing remarkably well!!! They removed him from the ventilator this morning, he is responding with short phrases, able to sit up with support in a chair, and is now showing some movement on his left side,” she posted. “He is making progress every day, and I believe it is due to all the love and support you all provide to our family. I apologize for not being able to respond to each of you individually, but I see how much you care, and I am conveying to Josh how loved he is.”
The tragic narrative of Vadell’s injury gained widespread attention, with many praising the officers for their presence in court to support their colleague.
“These two individuals are a threat to society. They should never be allowed to return to the community. It is senseless,” remarked one commenter on Facebook.
“It is wonderful to see the men and women in blue supporting one another,” another commenter added.
