New Jersey Moms Demand Action, Students Demand Action Respond to Fatal Shooting of Councilman Russell Heller 

The New Jersey chapters of Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action, both part of Everytown for Gun Safety’s grassroots networks, released the following statement in response to the tragic death of New Jersey Councilman Russell Heller, a 51-year-old Milford Borough councilman who was shot and killed outside his workplace, PSE&G. Early reports indicate that he was shot by a former PSE&G employee. This shooting comes just one week after Sayreville Councilwoman Eunice Dwumfour was shot and killed.

“Our thoughts are with Councilman Heller’s family and loved ones during this difficult time,” said Lisa DeMuro, a volunteer with the New Jersey chapter of Moms Demand Action “This is the second shooting of one of our public servants in two weeks — and comes on the same day as the memorial service of Councilwoman Dwumfour. We are heartbroken and hope that their families will see justice served.”

In an average year, 439 people are killed by guns in New Jersey and another 874 are wounded. Gun violence costs New Jersey $5.3 billion each year, of which $168.9 million is paid by taxpayers. More information about gun violence in New Jersey is available here.