You Won't Believe What Happened in Union Township: 4 Men Charged in Shocking Elderly Couple Robbery
On September 20, 2024, a violent home invasion shook Union Township, New Jersey, when four men from Newark stormed into the home of an elderly couple. Asim Key, 20, Altamir Thornton, 22, Yashir Phillips, 19, and Rahiem Maldonado, 22, have been charged in connection with this crime.

Imagine waking up to the sound of shattering glass and the terror of intruders storming into your home. This nightmare became a harsh reality for an elderly couple in Union Township, New Jersey, on the morning of September 20. The shocking crime has left the community reeling, but justice is finally being served. Four men from Newark have been charged in connection with this heinous act, and the details will leave you speechless.
The Crime That Shook the Community
The morning began like any other for the elderly couple on Scott Court. However, their peaceful existence was shattered when a group of masked intruders, dressed in black, burst into their home. The suspects arrived in a stolen BMW X3, which had been taken from Livingston earlier that night. Once inside, they brutally assaulted both the husband and wife, leaving them with severe injuries, including facial fractures and significant blood loss. The intruders made off with the wife's purse and the couple's 2022 Audi SQ8, which was parked in the driveway.
The Investigation: A Web of Deceit Unraveled
The Union Township Police Department launched an extensive investigation, collaborating with multiple state, local, and federal agencies. Through meticulous detective work, they uncovered a trail of evidence that led them to the suspects. Asim Key, 20, Altamir Thornton, 22, Yashir Phillips, 19, and Rahiem Maldonado, 22, all from Newark, were charged with a range of offenses, including carjacking, burglary, robbery, two counts of aggravated assault, hindering, aggravated arson, and receiving a stolen vehicle.
The investigation revealed that the suspects had been active throughout the night, committing multiple burglaries and thefts across Morris, Somerset, and Union counties. The stolen BMW was later found ablaze in Newark, while the Audi remains missing.
The Community's Response: United Against Crime
The Union Police Department expressed deep gratitude to the agencies that assisted in the investigation, including the Union County Prosecutor's Office, Bergen County Prosecutors Office, Newark Police Department, and others. The community has rallied around the affected family, offering support and calling for increased vigilance to protect elderly residents. Neighbors have come together, organizing community watch programs and advocating for enhanced security measures.
The Legal Proceedings: Justice in Motion
As of now, Maldonado, Thornton, and Phillips are being held in the Bergen County Jail on unrelated charges, while Key is detained at the Essex County Jail. The charges against these individuals reflect the severity of the crimes committed and the determination of law enforcement to bring perpetrators to justice. The community awaits the outcome of the legal proceedings, hopeful that justice will be served.
Conclusion: A Community United Against Crime
The violent home invasion in Union Township serves as a stark reminder of the importance of community vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies. The swift identification and charging of the suspects demonstrate the power of collaborative investigative efforts. As the community continues to heal from this traumatic event, it remains crucial for residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to help prevent future incidents. Together, they stand united against crime, ensuring that their neighborhood remains a safe and supportive place for all.
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