Suspect Named in Wildwood Shooting

Suspect Named in Wildwood Shooting

Authorities are on the hunt for a gunman after a late-night shooting left an innocent bystander hospitalized in critical condition.

The incident occurred on the evening of July 9, 2024, around 10:30 p.m., in the 3800 block of Pacific Avenue.

Suspect Identified

The Wildwood Police Department has identified the suspect as William C. Hoyle.

An arrest warrant has been issued for Hoyle, who was observed on video footage chasing an individual and firing a handgun. The Wildwood PF made a public post with a photo of Hoyle on their Facebook page.

Incident Details

The shooting resulted in a female victim being struck by gunfire. She was promptly transported to Atlantic Regional Medical Center, where she remains in critical condition.

The exact circumstances leading to the woman being hit are still unclear, as authorities have not disclosed further details.

Suspect’s Movements and Evidence Collection

Hoyle, who is known to the police, was tracked to an apartment on Pacific Avenue. Surveillance video captured him arriving at the residence wearing clothing that matched the description of what he wore during the shooting.

Although Hoyle was not found at the apartment, officers recovered several articles of clothing after executing a search warrant.

Additionally, police obtained footage showing Hoyle allegedly disposing of the handgun into a sewer drain near Spicer and Atlantic avenues.

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Victim’s Identity and Employer’s Response

The victim has been identified as an employee of Morey’s Piers, a local amusement park. Denise Beckson, the Vice President of Human Resources for Morey’s Piers, described the victim as a young international student working in Wildwood for the summer. Beckson confirmed that the woman was off-duty at the time of the shooting.

“We are a family, and we are working to provide support to our employee and her family during this incredibly challenging time,” Beckson stated.

“The news has deeply affected all of us, and we are committed to doing everything in our power to assist her and her loved ones. Our hearts and prayers are with them.”

Public Assistance Requested

The Wildwood Police Department is urging anyone with information on William C. Hoyle’s whereabouts to come forward.

They believe the public’s help is crucial in apprehending the suspect and ensuring the community’s safety.

Anyone with information regarding William C. Hoyle’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Wildwood Police Department’s Detective Division at 609-522-0222