Berkeley Heights Police

The Berkeley Heights Township Council has adopted a new ordinance regulating the use of electric bicycles, electric scooters, and motorized bicycles.

Over the coming weeks, the Berkeley Heights Police Department will be enforcing these regulations. Our goal is education and safety, but violations may result in enforcement action.

Please take a few moments to familiarize yourself with the new rules and ride responsibly. Together, we can keep Berkeley Heights safe for everyone.

Yesterday, we gathered as a community to remember and honor the brave veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country during our Memorial Day ceremony.

We also recognized the retirement of Lt. Gaffney on his final day with the Berkeley Heights Police Department after more than 20 years of dedicated service to the township he proudly grew up in and protected.

Yesterday also marked Lt. Gaffney’s final Memorial Day parade marching alongside the Berkeley Heights Police Department Honor Guard — a tradition and presence that will truly be missed.

Thank you, Lieutenant Gaffney, for your service to both our country and our community. We wish you a healthy and happy retirement.

Due to the forecasted weather, the start of the Memorial Day Parade has been moved to 10:00 AM. While this was a difficult decision, the parade must go on!

We invite the entire community to continue this wonderful tradition with us and join us following the parade at Veterans Memorial Park for free hot dogs, drinks, and ice pops. 🇺🇸

***ROAD CLOSURE AND POWER OUTAGE***

UPDATE #2: JCP&L has completed repairs and power is restored. All roadways have been reopened.

UPDATE: JCP&L is advising that they estimate power to be restored by 1PM.

Union Ave, between Hillary Pl and Pearl St, as well as Kline Blvd is closed to all traffic due to damaged utility pole and power lines. There is currently no estimated time of restoration.

Follow all posted detours and do not drive around road closures.

We will post updates as they are received from JCP&L.

Chief Frank Mea and Captain Brian Nigro were honored to attend today’s recognition ceremony hosted by the New Jersey Narcotic Enforcement Officers Association where Officer Bryan McLaughlin was recognized.

Congratulations to Officer McLaughlin on this well-deserved recognition and thank you for your continued service and professionalism.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 19, 2026

Berkeley Heights, NJ — The Berkeley Heights Police Department is currently investigating a pedestrian struck by a motor vehicle on Plainfield Avenue near Berkeley Avenue.

Plainfield Avenue is closed in the area at this time. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and seek alternate routes.

A medevac helicopter is utilizing Upper Columbia Field as a landing zone as part of the emergency response.

This incident has no connection to the school.

The investigation remains ongoing.

The Berkeley Heights Police Department is currently monitoring a report of a black bear in the area between Plainfield Avenue and Park Avenue. Residents are advised to use caution, avoid approaching the animal, and secure any outdoor trash or food sources. Please contact police if you observe the bear acting aggressively or lingering in populated areas.

Throwback Tuesday

Pictured left to right in the Chief’s Office are Traffic Sergeant Al Christensen, Chief Harold Curtis Jr., and Captain Ralph Del Duca. A great snapshot of leadership and dedication from an earlier era of the department’s history.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 4, 2026

Berkeley Heights Police Investigate Armed Threat Incident; Suspect Taken into Custody

Berkeley Heights, NJ — At approximately 11:14 a.m. on May 4, 2026, officers from the Berkeley Heights Police Department responded to a residence on Wren Court following a report of a male suspect brandishing a handgun at a landscaper.

Upon arrival, officers learned that the suspect allegedly chambered a round and shouted statements toward the victim before retreating back into his residence. The individual then refused to exit the home, prompting an immediate and coordinated police response to ensure the safety of nearby residents.

Due to the close proximity of the incident, police coordinated with Woodruff School to ensure that no students or staff were permitted outside during the incident as a precautionary measure.

The Union County SWAT Team responded to assist. After a brief standoff, the suspect, identified as Angel Alvarado, was safely taken into custody without further incident.

Criminal charges are pending at this time, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Police Chief Frank Mea commended the professionalism of Berkeley Heights officers, as well as the support provided by the Union County SWAT Team and surrounding law enforcement agencies.

Anyone with additional information is asked to contact the Berkeley Heights Police Department at 908-464-1111 and request Detective Patrick Moran.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Berkeley Heights Police Department Investigating Disorderly Juvenile Incidents on Plainfield Avenue

Berkeley Heights, NJ — The Berkeley Heights Police Department is currently investigating a house party that took place last evening in the 500 block of Plainfield Avenue, which resulted in numerous disorderly incidents involving juveniles in the surrounding area.

Officers responded to multiple reports of disruptive and disorderly behavior in the area, which are believed to have originated from the party. Upon arrival, officers addressed several incidents involving juveniles and took appropriate action to restore order and ensure the safety of the surrounding neighborhood.

Parents and guardians are reminded that hosting underage drinking parties will not be tolerated. Individuals who permit or facilitate such gatherings may face criminal charges and other legal consequences.

Anyone with information related to this matter is urged to contact Detective Triguero at 908-464-1111 or via email at [email protected].