January 30, 2017

Contact: Sheriff Armando Fontoura (973) 621-4105

Newark – A suspected armed carjacking suspect was arrested today by Essex County sheriff’s officers.

Sheriff Armando Fontoura stated that uniformed officers from his department’s Patrol Division observed a 2007 Range Rover wagon, driven by a suspect later identified as Robert Lilly, 22 of Newark, at noon on Monday on South Orange Avenue and South 9^th Street.

The vehicle had been reported as taken by physical force at 7:00 a.m. by an adult male victim who resides in the area of Society Hill apartments.

“The suspect vehicle was followed by our officers,” Sheriff Fontoura noted.  “When the suspect noticed our marked cruiser behind him he accelerated and crashed the vehicle into two other vehicles.”

Lilly attempted to run from the scene by climbing out of the Range Rover through the sunroof.

“The suspect was arrested a short distance away by our officers on foot.”  Fontoura added, “A semi-automatic handgun was recovered, along with marijuana.”

One of the arresting sheriff’s officers suffered minor injuries.  He was taken to University Hospital where he received stitches and was released.  The other driver of one of the other vehicles was taken to University Hospital and was treated and released.  Lilly was transported East Orange General Hospital where he is also being treated for minor injuries associated with the crash.

“Our officers are to be commended for their alertness and dedication to duty for removing a dangerous suspect from our streets and quickly resolving a major criminal incident,” the sheriff said.

To date, Lilly has been charged with the unlawful possession of a weapon, the unlawful possession of hollow point bullets, aggravated assault by automobile, eluding, resisting arrest by physical force and receiving stolen property.

Other charges, including carjacking, are pending against the suspect.

Following his medical treatment, the suspect will be lodged at the county jail where he will await a bail hearing.