On January 7th, an alarming incident on the New Jersey Turnpike led to the severe injury of an 8-year-old girl when Hernando Garciamorales allegedly threw a rock at a school bus. The event occurred near the Teaneck Road exit as the bus, carrying students from Yeshivat Noam, returned from a field trip.
Law enforcement officials reported that Garciamorales was apprehended at a makeshift campsite in Old Croaker County Park, Bergen County. During the arrest, he is said to have admitted to this assault as well as to several other prior incidents involving rock-throwing in the region.
The young girl, who was struck by the rock, suffered a fractured skull and was transported to Hackensack University Medical Center. Despite the severity of her injury, she remained alert and stable and underwent surgery to aid in her recovery.
Investigators have not identified any markings on the bus that would indicate it as a Jewish school bus, leaving the motive undetermined. Garciamorales has been charged with aggravated assault, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and several other offences.
Given the gravity of the charges and a history of violent behavior, Bergen County authorities have deemed Garciamorales ineligible for release under the state’s bail reform law. He is currently held at Bergen County Jail pending a detention hearing.
The community has expressed concern and outrage over this violent act. Local officials, including Teaneck Mayor Mark Schwartz and Councilman Elie Katz, previously offered a reward for information leading to an arrest. Meanwhile, Representative Josh Gottheimer expressed solidarity with the victim's family and commitment to justice.
Additional reports suggest Garciamorales may be an undocumented immigrant from Mexico, though this detail has not been independently verified. The case has consequently sparked a broader discussion on public safety and immigration enforcement.
As the investigation continues, law enforcement agencies, including the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office and local police departments, are preparing for upcoming court proceedings to address the suspect's accountability and the community's safety concerns.
