Javier Chaj-Ajtun, 33, was shot and killed while sitting in his idling van at the intersection of McKinley Avenue and North Anderson Street in Trenton, New Jersey, on the evening of August 13, 2021. Around 7:10 p.m. a man approached the vehicle, spoke briefly with Chaj-Ajtun, then opened fire, striking him in the face. He was taken to Capital Health Regional Medical Center and was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Detectives reviewed surveillance footage and spoke with witnesses as part of the investigation into the city’s 16th homicide of the year. The footage and accounts led authorities to identify Luis Carranza-Andrade as the suspect. A patrol officer recognized distinctive New Balance sneakers seen in the video, which helped link Carranza-Andrade to the shooting. A warrant was issued, and he was located and arrested in Nebraska and extradited to New Jersey to face charges. Authorities have said Carranza-Andrade is a known member of the 18th Street gang; his detention hearing was postponed at the defense attorney’s request.

If anyone saw the shooting or has additional information about Javier’s movements that evening, please share what is known with investigators.