Main fundraiser photo

Support Victims Tragic Shooting Near Stockton Uni

Donation protected
Hi everyone,

It is with a heavy heart that I share the story of my dear friend, Maritza Arias, who became the victim of a senseless act of violence on September 11, 2025, right at the entrance of Stockton College in Galloway, NJ. In an isolated road rage incident, she was shot in the face and now faces a long and uncertain journey to recovery.

Maritza is a loving single mother who works tirelessly at two jobs to provide for her young children. She is the kind of person who always puts others first, and now she needs our help more than ever. The extent of her injuries is still being evaluated, and we don't yet know if she will lose vision in her eye or how long she will be out of work. In the meantime, she faces mounting medical bills, legal fees, and the everyday expenses of raising a family. The trauma she experienced has left deep scars, both emotionally and physically, and she now faces the daunting task of healing and rebuilding her life.

The haunting memories of that day will linger, making it challenging for her to reintegrate into society and overcome her fears. In addition to the emotional toll, Maritza is grappling with the physical aftermath of being shot in the face, leading to ongoing medical challenges and mounting expenses for treatments and therapies. Despite these immense challenges, Maritza remains dedicated to providing for her family, ensuring they have a safe home and food on the table. Your donation will provide a lifeline for Maritza and her family, helping her seek justice, heal from her wounds, as well as helping with living expenses and childcare costs. Your support can make a tangible difference in her journey toward recovery and resilience.

No amount is too small, and every dollar will make a difference in Maritza's life. Please donate what you can and share this campaign with your friends and family.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support.

A message from Maritza:

I'm overwhelmed with gratitude for the incredible support I've received from friends and even strangers. I was the victim of a man consumed by rage and what seems to be racism, who devalued my life simply because I am a hispanic woman. My only mistake was merging onto a lane that was ending. This man attempted to ram my car twice, blocking my path, and then pursued me onto Jimmy Leeds Road.

When I stopped at a red light near Stockton University, he began shouting vile insults at me, demanding to know why I was speeding. I calmly responded that I wasn't, but he continued his hateful tirade, threatening to kill me. As I quickly rolled up my window, I saw him point a gun at me.

Everything happened in a blur. I remember the deafening sound of the gunshot as the bullet shattered my window. Glass flew everywhere, and blood poured down my face. I managed to call 911, but my vision was obscured by the blood. I feared he would return to finish what he started. I remember hearing the voices of people nearby as I desperately cried for help. My thoughts raced to my children, especially my youngest, who needed someone to meet her at the school bus stop. I screamed for help and poured water on my face, fighting to stay conscious so I could identify my attacker to the police and ensure my daughter's safety.

My face is severely injured, and I've undergone surgery on my right eye. I'm waiting to see if my vision will return. Despite everything, I'm thankful to be alive. I believe God was watching over me and spared my life. This horrific event has deeply impacted me and my family. It's a stark reminder that such violence can happen to anyone, even when you're not seeking conflict. Please, everyone, stay safe. There is too much brokenness in the world.
Donate

Donations 

    Donate

    Organizer

    Yossie Rivera
    Organizer
    Egg Harbor Township, NJ

    Your easy, powerful, and trusted home for help

    • Easy

      Donate quickly and easily

    • Powerful

      Send help right to the people and causes you care about

    • Trusted

      Your donation is protected by the GoFundMe Giving Guarantee