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Woodbury Wrap: Justice Served in Cherry Hill Murder Case

This week, South Jersey faces both heartbreak and healing as we cover critical public safety updates, celebrate community achievements, and look ahead to exciting summer events that bring our region together.

What’s in this issue:

  • ⚖️ Justice served in Cherry Hill veterinarian murder case
  • 🌊 Tragic reminder about summer water safety on the Delaware River
  • 🏆 Barnegat Township earns top safety ranking in New Jersey
  • ⚽ World Cup fever hits Cherry Hill as Philadelphia prepares to host
  • 🐠 Atlantic City Aquarium expands educational offerings for families

💡 Quote of the Day

“The measure of a community’s strength isn’t just in celebrating victories, but in how we support one another through tragedy and work together to keep our neighbors safe.”

— Community Safety Advocate

📰 Latest News

🔗 Oregon man pleads guilty to murder of popular Cherry Hill veterinarian (3 minute read)

Oregon man pleads guilty to murder of popular Cherry Hill veterinarian

Justice for Dr. Anthony: After months of investigation, the Cherry Hill community finally has closure in the tragic murder of beloved veterinarian Dr. Michael Anthony. Cristian Custodio-Aquino, 28, pleaded guilty to first-degree murder on Wednesday, accepting a 30-year prison sentence without parole eligibility. Dr. Anthony was found brutally stabbed outside his Cherry Hill home in December 2024, sending shockwaves through the tight-knit South Jersey community.

Key Points:

  • Critical forensic evidence—eyeglasses with a unique model number found at the scene—contained DNA matching Custodio-Aquino
  • The suspect was arrested in California in February 2025 after police discovered the victim’s blood in his vehicle
  • Sentencing is scheduled for July 9, bringing the case toward final resolution

Why it matters: Dr. Anthony was more than just a veterinarian—he was a cherished member of the Cherry Hill community who dedicated his life to caring for beloved pets. This guilty plea brings a measure of closure to family, friends, and the countless clients who mourned his senseless loss. The resolution demonstrates the power of forensic investigation and multi-state cooperation in bringing justice to South Jersey communities.

🔗 Body Of Missing Swimmer Recovered In South Jersey (2 minute read)

Body Of Missing Swimmer Recovered In South Jersey

A tragic search ended on Sunday, June 8, when the body of Carlos Gil-Reyes, a 31-year-old New York City man, was recovered from the Delaware River in Palmyra Township. Gil-Reyes went missing three days earlier after entering the water near Hawk Island in Delanco Township during a late-night incident on June 5. While one swimmer was rescued, Gil-Reyes was last seen swimming toward Pennsylvania before disappearing beneath the surface.

Key Points:

  • An extensive 11-hour search involving the Coast Guard, state police, and local fire departments was eventually suspended before the recovery
  • The incident occurred during a late-night swim near Hawk Island in Delanco Township
  • Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the drowning

Why it matters: As summer temperatures rise and South Jersey families flock to the Delaware River for recreation, this heartbreaking incident serves as a critical reminder about water safety. Even strong swimmers can encounter unexpected dangers in river currents, especially during nighttime conditions. Local emergency responders want residents to exercise extreme caution, swim only in designated areas, and never enter the water alone or after dark.

🔗 Only One South Jersey Town Made New Jersey’s Safest Cities List (9 minute read)

Only One South Jersey Town Made New Jersey’s Safest Cities List

Barnegat Township in Ocean County has earned serious bragging rights, claiming the #4 spot on SafeWise’s 2026 ranking of New Jersey’s safest cities—the only South Jersey community to crack the top 10. The township has achieved remarkable crime reductions, with property crime dropping significantly over two years and violent crime decreasing year-over-year. Most impressively, zero motor vehicle thefts were reported in the analyzed data period.

Key Points:

  • Barnegat Township is the sole South Jersey representative in the top 10 safest New Jersey cities
  • The community has achieved measurable reductions in both property and violent crime over consecutive years
  • Zero motor vehicle thefts were reported during the study period, a remarkable achievement

Why it matters: While some debate whether Southern Ocean County truly qualifies as “South Jersey,” this recognition shines a spotlight on the safe, family-friendly suburban neighborhoods and shore communities throughout our region. Many South Jersey residents believe other local communities deserve similar recognition for their commitment to public safety. Barnegat’s success demonstrates what’s possible when communities prioritize safety initiatives and law enforcement partnerships.

🔥 Trending

⚡ Quick Hits

🎯 World Cup Excitement Builds in Cherry Hill

As Philadelphia gears up to host six FIFA World Cup matches—including a July 4th round of sixteen game—Cherry Hill stores are experiencing a surge in World Cup merchandise sales. Local retailers report strong customer interest, with staff helping fans locate specific team jerseys and even ordering items online when needed. The first match kicks off Sunday, June 14th. (Read more)

🎯 New Educational Space at Atlantic City Aquarium

Atlantic City Aquarium celebrates a major milestone with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday, June 12, at 10:00 a.m., unveiling its newly expanded third-floor environmental education space. The project was developed through collaboration between Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small and the South Jersey Transportation Authority, demonstrating commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement. Free parking available at 800 N. New Hampshire Avenue. (Read more)

🎯 Remembering Al Afflerbach of Woodbury Heights

The Woodbury Heights community mourns the loss of Al Afflerbach, 79, who passed away peacefully on June 9 surrounded by family. Known as a gentle giant with unwavering kindness, Al was a passionate car enthusiast, Harley-Davidson lover, championship pool player, and skilled storyteller. He leaves behind his wife of 35 years, Laura; eight children; eleven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Services are June 15th at McGuinness Funeral Home in Woodbury. (Read more)

🎯 Regional Safety Alert: Church Threat Arrest

A 37-year-old Exton man faces felony terroristic threats charges after posting violent messages targeting St. Pius X Catholic Church in Broomall, PA. Christopher Henderson was detained before reaching the church and is being held on $500,000 bail with a psychological evaluation ordered. While this incident occurred across the state line in Delaware County, it serves as a reminder for South Jersey faith communities to remain vigilant. (Read more)

🎓 Industry Insight

Summer Water Safety: What Every South Jersey Family Should Know

With the Delaware River drowning tragedy fresh in our minds, now is the critical time to review water safety protocols before peak summer season arrives. The Delaware River presents unique hazards that even experienced swimmers may underestimate—strong currents, sudden depth changes, underwater obstacles, and temperature variations that can cause muscle cramps.

South Jersey emergency responders emphasize several non-negotiable rules: never swim alone, avoid alcohol before or during water activities, always wear properly fitted life jackets when boating, and never enter the water at night when visibility is compromised. Designated swimming areas exist for good reason—they’re monitored, marked for depth, and positioned away from boat traffic and dangerous currents.

Parents should also teach children that rivers are fundamentally different from pools or beaches. What looks calm on the surface can hide powerful undercurrents. If you do find yourself caught in a current, the universal advice is to swim parallel to shore rather than fighting directly against the flow. This summer, let’s honor those we’ve lost by making smart, safe choices around South Jersey’s beautiful but potentially dangerous waterways.

❓ Question of the Day

What summer activity are you most looking forward to in South Jersey this year?

👋 Wrap Up

This week’s newsletter captures the full spectrum of South Jersey life—from the sobering realities of crime and tragedy to the uplifting recognition of our safest communities and exciting summer opportunities ahead. The guilty plea in Dr. Anthony’s murder case brings long-awaited justice to Cherry Hill, while the Delaware River drowning reminds us all to prioritize safety as we enjoy our region’s natural beauty.

But South Jersey is also about celebration and community pride. Barnegat Township’s safety ranking proves what we already know—our region offers wonderful places to raise families. The World Cup excitement building in Cherry Hill stores and the Atlantic City Aquarium’s expansion give us even more reasons to explore and enjoy everything South Jersey has to offer this summer. As we remember neighbors like Al Afflerbach, we’re reminded that the true strength of our communities lies in the connections we build and the care we show one another.

Stay safe, stay connected, and stay proud of South Jersey,

Woodbury Wrap Weekly Editor

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