COURT HOUSE — A Shellbay Avenue resident is facing three counts of attempted murder, along with other charges.

The Middle Township Police Department issued a press release saying they were called to a Shellbay Avenue residence on Friday, Aug. 22, at 6:22 p.m., for reports of a man acting erratically and aggressively toward family members while wielding an ax.

When officers arrived, they were informed that Stewart Allay, 34, had entered a two-story shed on the property, carrying the weapon. Officers established a secure perimeter and attempted contact with Allay, who spoke to them briefly before refusing further communication.
Police also confirmed that an active warrant had already been issued for Allay’s arrest.

The Cape May County Crisis Negotiation Team responded to assist, but was unable to establish contact with Allay. Because of the escalating nature of the situation, the county SWAT Team was deployed and assumed control of the scene.

After several hours of attempted negotiation, the SWAT Team entered the two-story shed. According to police, Allay swung the ax at multiple SWAT team members, assaulted two officers, and actively resisted arrest. He was taken into custody and taken to Cooper University Hospital-Cape Regional for medical evaluation.
After he was released from the hospital, Allay was formally charged with the following offenses: Three counts of attempted murder; two counts of aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer; one count of hindering apprehension and obstruction; one count of resisting arrest; two counts of possession of a weapon for unlawful purpose; and two counts of unlawful possession of a weapon.

Allay was being held at the Cape May County Correctional Center.